A drug dubbed “the female Viagra” which boosts sexual desire in women has been given the green light in the US.
Addyi has become the first drug aimed at enhancing the sex drive of women to be approved by regulators.
It works by increasing levels of brain chemicals that affect the female libido.
However, potential users have been warned there are serious side effects – especially when combined with alcohol – including risks of dangerously low blood pressure and fainting.
Despite the dangers, it has been hailed as a major milestone.
America’s National Consumers League said: "This is the biggest breakthrough in women's sexual health since the advent of the pill.”
The daily pill will be available on prescription from about $30 (£20) to $75 (£48) per month.
It has been nicknamed “the female Viagra” after the male impotence drug which has generated billions since launching in 1998.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has insisted the packaging be emblazoned with prominent warnings alerting people to the potential side effects.
Opponents of the drug say it is not worth the side effects, which also include nausea, drowsiness and dizziness.
They point out that the FDA rejected the drug twice, in 2010 and 2013, due to these risks.
