What it does
Filbenserin is a medication used to help enhance sexual desire in women with low sexual desire disorder.
Commonly used for: low sexual desire disorder (hypoactive sexual desire disorder)
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 20:27:49 · updated 2026-07-26 09:27:00
About this medicine
Filbenserin is a medication used to help enhance sexual desire in women with low sexual desire disorder.
What it treats
- low sexual desire disorder (hypoactive sexual desire disorder)
How it works
Filbenserin works by balancing certain chemicals in the brain that affect sexual desire.
Who it's for
This medicine is for women who experience a lack of sexual desire that causes distress.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: filbenserin
Filbanserin is a medication primarily used for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women. It functions as a neuropharmacological agent that acts on serotonin receptors and has been shown to influence sexual desire and arousal. The drug is administered orally and is typically taken at bedtime to mitigate potential side effects such as dizziness and sedation.
Indications
- Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in premenopausal women
Dosage
Adults: Refer to prescribing information for specific dosing guidance.
Mechanism of action
Filbanserin acts as a mixed agonist-antagonist at various serotonin receptors, notably the 5-HT1A receptor, where it acts as an agonist, and the 5-HT2A receptor, where it acts as an antagonist. By modulating the levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the brain, filbanserin helps to restore the balance of sexual desire in individuals with HSDD.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of filbanserin involve alterations in neurotransmitter levels, particularly serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Its agonistic action at the 5-HT1A receptor enhances dopaminergic and noradrenergic activity which is believed to contribute to increased sexual desire. The antagonistic action at the 5-HT2A receptor helps to reduce inhibitory effects on sexual motivation, thus promoting a more positive sexual experience.
Pharmacokinetics
Filbanserin is absorbed rapidly after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring approximately 0.5 to 4 hours post-dose. The drug is extensively metabolized in the liver primarily via the CYP3A4 pathway, and its elimination half-life is approximately 11 hours. Food intake can significantly affect its bioavailability, with higher absorption observed when taken with food. It is primarily excreted via the urine, with a small proportion eliminated as unchanged drug.
Contra-indications
- Concomitant use with alcohol
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Hypersensitivity to filbanserin or any excipients
Adverse effects
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Somnolence
- Insomnia
- Dry mouth
- Hypotension
Interactions
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole)
- CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, carbamazepine)
- Alcohol (increased risk of hypotension and CNS depression)
Precautions
- Monitor for signs of hypotension
- Assess for history of substance use disorder
- Caution in patients with a history of depression or mood disorders
- Avoid use in patients with moderate hepatic impairment
Pregnancy
Filbanserin is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks. Limited data is available on its safety.
Breast-feeding
It is not known whether filbanserin is excreted in human milk. Caution is advised when administering to breastfeeding women.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets (100 mg)
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.