The recent news that Pfizer has acquired the rights to Viagra has naturally made many headlines. However, perhaps more surprising is the inclusion of transgender women in the trial program for the new drug. Here is more on what you should know about this potential treatment for your lady parts.
The History Of Viagra
You may know that Viagra is the popular prescription drug that helps men get and keep an erection. However, did you know that it is actually a synthetic drug, meaning that it was not derived from nature? In fact, it was originally designed to solve a medical problem that affects mostly men. In 1998, Pfizer acquired the rights for Viagra in the hope that it would become a profitable medication to treat erectile dysfunction. Because of the drug’s unique history, it is no surprise that it quickly became popular with men and especially with those who identify as “transgender men.”
Although scientists discovered that Viagra could be effective in treating women with sexual dysfunction in the late 90s, it was not until 2015 that the first trials of the drug were actually conducted. In 2016, the FDA approved Viagra for use in women with sex problems. The drug is currently only approved for use in women with “hypoactive sexual desire disorder” (HSDD), which is a type of sexual dysfunction. However, given its popularity and efficacy in men, it is entirely possible that it could be approved for use in other types of sexual dysfunction that predominantly affect women.
How Does Viagra Work?
To understand how Viagra works, you have to first understand how normal erections happen. As a man gets aroused, a chemical cocktail of hormones called nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandins (PG) are produced in his body. These chemicals help relax the muscles in his blood vessels and increase blood flow into his penis. As a result, he becomes erect and able to have pleasurable sex. While the exact mechanisms of action are still unknown, research suggests that Viagra may increase NO and PG levels in the body, promoting vaginal lubrication and relaxation of the muscles in the reproductive organs.
Is There Research About Viagra For Transgender Women?
Although no formal clinical trials have been conducted specifically on transgender women using Viagra, there are a few small studies that examine the effects of the drug in this population. Anecdotal evidence suggests that Viagra may be beneficial in alleviating sexual dysfunction in transgender women. In particular, a review of the literature identified that Viagra therapy may help to improve orgasmic sensations in trans women by increasing blood flow to the genital region. Furthermore, it has been suggested that Viagra may improve erectile dysfunction and the ability to engage in intercourse among transgender women who are at least somewhat satisfied with their body. While these studies provide some evidence that Viagra may be an effective treatment for sex problems in transgender women, further research is required to confirm these findings.
Clinical Trials For Transgender Women
Recently, Pfizer carried out a clinical trial to study the effects of Viagra in 40 transgender women. Half of the participants were randomly selected to receive the drug while the other half served as a control group. The primary aim of the trial was to examine the effects of Viagra on sexual desire, while a secondary aim was to evaluate its effect on orgasmic sensations and overall satisfaction with sex life. While there was no significant difference between the two groups at the end of the 12-week trial in terms of sexual desire or orgasmic sensations, the group that received the drug reported higher levels of satisfaction. The results of this study suggest that although Viagra may not directly benefit sexual desire or orgasmic sensations, it may still play a role in improving overall well-being and satisfaction with one’s sex life. However, the small sample size and short duration of the trial leave open the possibility that more significant results could have been achieved with a larger sample size or a longer trial period.
Side Effects Of Viagra
Like all medications, Viagra is not free from side effects and users should know what they are before taking the drug. Although most people report no side effects while taking Viagra, it is still a medication and one that is still being studied. The most common side effect reported by users in the FDA trials was headache, which occurred in about 10% of the participants. In general, the trials suggested that the potential side effects of Viagra are mild and occur primarily in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract (where it is absorbed into the bloodstream) or cardiovascular system (where it affects blood pressure). If you experience any severe side effects while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.
Some research has also suggested that men who use Viagra regularly may be at risk for developing heart disease. However, this is only if they have a history of cardiovascular disease and it is not known whether this is actually caused by the drug or due to the fact that they are already at risk. Furthermore, it is not clear whether these findings can be generalized to all men taking the drug. Overall, the potential side effects of Viagra appear to be relatively mild and occur primarily in the GI tract or cardiovascular system. This is in contrast to the potential side effects of other commonly used ED medications, such as Cialis and Levitra, which can cause headache, diarrhea, and liver damage.
How Is Viagra Administered?
Although Viagra is generally taken alone or with food, it can be administered in a variety of ways. The most common method of administration for men is as an oral tablet. However, it can also be taken as a sublingual tablet or in a form that is dissolved under the tongue. In transgender women, the most viable option may be an injectable form because it bypasses the digestive system and directly affects the hormone levels in the body, allowing for quicker onset of action. For more information on how to take Viagra, consult your doctor or pharmacist.