Viagra for women exists — but most people don’t understand what it is, how it works, or why it took so long to get here.
In this episode of Learned Too Late, Allyn Rose sits down with Cindy Eckert, biopharma entrepreneur and leading advocate for women’s sexual health, to unpack the drug, Addyi, often referred to as the “female Viagra,” also known as the little pink pill.
Cindy shares her experience navigating the pharmaceutical industry and pushing women’s desire into a medical conversation that historically ignored it. Together, they break down what the little pink pill actually does (and doesn’t do), why female libido has been misunderstood for decades, and how culture, medicine, and misinformation have shaped the way women think about desire.*
This is a clear, practical conversation about women’s sexual health — without hype, euphemisms, or shame.
Topics discussed:
- What “female Viagra” actually means
- How the little pink pill works
- Why women’s libido has been treated differently than men’s
- Cindy Eckert’s path through biotech and advocacy
- Desire, agency, and informed choice
*Addyi was recently FDA approved for hypoactive sexual desire disorder in postmenopausal women.
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The discussion is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content of this podcast does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Individual health conditions, medications, and risk factors vary, and listeners should always speak with their physician or licensed healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or treatment. The views expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not constitute medical diagnosis, treatment, or endorsement.
ADDYI, flibanserin, is for women <65 with low sexual desire disorder who have not had problems with low sexual desire in the past, and who have low sexual desire that is troubling to them no matter the type of sexual activity, situation, or sexual partner. The low sexual desire is not due to a medical or mental health problem, problems in the relationship or medicine or other drug use. ADDYI is not for men or to enhance sexual performance. Your risk of severe low blood pressure and fainting is increased if you drink 1-2 standard alcoholic drinks close in time to your ADDYI dose. Wait at least 2 hours after one to two drinks before taking ADDYI at bedtime and skip your dose if you drink three or more drinks that evening. If you take certain prescription, OTC or herbal medications, or have liver problems, the risk of low blood pressure and fainting increases and you should not take ADDYI. Do not take if you are allergic to any of ADDYI’s ingredients. Sometimes serious sleepiness can occur. Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, tiredness, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep and dry mouth. See PI and Boxed Warning at addyi.com/pi