A drug being tested as a possible antidepressant, flibanserin, had surprising side effects.  While it failed as an antidepressant it was noticed that it had another interesting result.  It significantly increased womens libido and generally improved their sexual desire and sexual experiences.  These observations resulted in tests sponsored by the manufacturer, Boehringer Ingelheim, in the USA, Canada and Europe involving 2,000 women.  These trials confirmed the initially noted improvements in sexual desire and experience.  Professor John Thorp who led the research said  " It's essentially a Viagra like drug for women, Female Viagra, in that diminished desire or libido is the most common feminine sexual problem, like erectile dysfunction is in men"

Paula Hall of Relate said: "Female loss of libido is a big problem and it is not going away. It can cause problems within a relationship and affect self-esteem.  This research is really quite exciting for women with loving partners whose loss of libido is a physical thing. But Female Viagra is not going to fix a broken relationship or help with looking after the kids or cleaning the house."

As always with new drugs it will be some time, years, before Female Viagra becomes generally available.  We will keep you informed.