RF01 | PMON43 Melanocortin-4 Receptor Agonism Enhances Sexual Brain Processing in Women with Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder

ABSTRACT: Abstract

Introduction

Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) is characterized by a persistent deficiency of sexual fantasies and desire for sexual activity, causing marked distress or interpersonal difficulty. It is the most prevalent female sexual health problem worldwide, affecting approximately 1 in 10 women, but has limited treatment options despite its substantial health, social, and economic burden. Melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) agonists have emerged as a promising therapy for women with HSDD, although, to date, their mechanism of action is unknown. This study aims to use functional MRI to delineate the reproductive neuroendocrine pathways involved and elucidate how MC4R agonists treat HSDD in women.

Methods

We conducted a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-cont

SUBMITTER:  

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9625176 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature