Flibanserin ('Female Viagra') and Tamoxifen — March 2024 Highlights

In March 2024 we covered an ASCO presentation showing flibanserin improved libido and quality of life for breast cancer survivors taking tamoxifen. The trial ran 24 weeks and showed meaningful gains in sexual desire, though some people had side effects. Below I explain the main findings, why they matter, and what to ask your doctor if this seems relevant to you.

What the study found

The 24-week randomized trial tested flibanserin in breast cancer survivors who reported low sexual desire while on tamoxifen. Researchers reported clear improvement in sexual desire scores and related quality-of-life measures versus placebo. Benefits appeared after several weeks and lasted through the study. Side effects included dizziness, fatigue and nausea, and a few participants experienced low blood pressure. The authors urged careful patient selection and monitoring.

Practical takeaways and safety

Sexual side effects from tamoxifen are common and can affect mood and relationships. Flibanserin already has FDA approval for premenopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder, so clinicians are familiar with its use. Using it in breast cancer survivors is newer, so decisions should be individualized and closely supervised.

Don’t mix flibanserin with alcohol because it can lower blood pressure. It’s metabolized by liver enzymes, so other medicines might interact. Your oncologist or pharmacist can check interactions with tamoxifen and any other drugs or supplements you take.

This finding treats sexual health as part of survivorship, not an afterthought. If sexual desire problems are affecting you, you don’t have to accept them as permanent. Talk openly with your care team about symptoms, treatment options, and whether a trial like this or an off-label prescription could help.

When you contact your doctor, bring a short timeline: when the low desire started, any other symptoms, what meds and supplements you use, and how much alcohol you drink. Ask: 'Could flibanserin help me while I'm on tamoxifen?' Also ask whether any local treatments like vaginal moisturizers or pelvic therapy could help while you consider medication.

If your oncologist isn’t comfortable prescribing flibanserin, ask for referral to a sexual health specialist or a gynecologist experienced in cancer survivorship. Some patients may be offered clinical trials — that can give access to new care.

Simple daily steps can ease sexual discomfort while you explore options. Use water-based lubricants, keep communication open with your partner, manage sleep and stress, and consider counseling if mood or relationship issues are involved. These don’t replace medication but often improve results when combined.

Research like this is promising because it focuses on quality of life after cancer treatment. Watch for full peer-reviewed publications and longer follow-up data. We'll keep tracking updates and share clear, practical takeaways so you can discuss options confidently with your care team.