Futura Medical PLC (AIM:FUM, OTC:FAMDF), the company behind the over-the-counter erectile dysfunction gel Eroxon, has announced encouraging early trial results for a new product aimed at treating sexual dysfunction in women.
The study, though small, showed what Futura called “highly statistically significant” improvements in sexual function among women using its WSD4000 gel, a topical treatment still in development.
The company said the results exceeded the threshold considered clinically meaningful by experts in the field.
Twelve women took part in the early feasibility study, which was carried out in line with US Food and Drug Administration guidance. Eleven completed the trial.
Participants included both pre- and post-menopausal women, who reported on their sexual experiences before and after using the gel.
Results were measured using two standardised questionnaires. The first, known as the Female Sexual Function Index, showed an average improvement of 6.35 points, well above the 4-point increase that specialists consider the minimum for a clinically important change.
Women reported better outcomes in five of the six areas the questionnaire tracks, including arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction and pain reduction.
The second questionnaire, which captured data from 56 sexual encounters, suggested that the gel worked quickly and consistently.
In more than 90% of uses, participants said it produced genital sensation within five minutes. Almost 70% of uses resulted in orgasm, and more than 80% of women said they were satisfied with their level of arousal.
No participants dropped out due to side effects. Some did experience a mild or moderate burning sensation, which was temporary and, according to the company, generally interpreted as a sign that the gel was working.
Futura said the findings gave it the confidence to move ahead with further studies. These will include a placebo-controlled trial and a larger home-use study, both expected to report results in mid-2026.
If those are positive, a larger phase III trial could follow, the final step before seeking regulatory approval for the product.
WSD4000 could be a major opportunity for the company. While drugs exist for male sexual dysfunction, women currently have no over-the-counter topical treatments approved by regulators. Futura believes its product could fill that gap.
Research suggests the need is significant. Studies show that between 40% and 50% of women experience symptoms of sexual dysfunction, such as low desire or difficulty with arousal.
Futura’s own survey of 1,000 women in the United States found 60% had experienced at least one such symptom in the past year, yet only a quarter had sought professional help.
Ken James, Futura’s head of research and development, said: “We are delighted with the results… which show clear and positive trends.
"With our specialism in developing and bringing to market topically delivered gel formulations for improved sexual health, we believe we can successfully build on these results and provide a treatment for a condition that affects a significant number of women worldwide.”