Question

How might SSRIs contribute to sexual dysfunction and what sexual dysfunction might they be used to treat ?

Answer 1

Sexual dysfunction is one of the side effect of antidepressants. The sexual problems ranges from decreased sexual behavior, decrease sexual excitement or delayed ejuculation problems. Men are more likely to have this difficulty than women especially with desire phase.

SSRIs inhibit 5HT reuptake via antagonism of serotonin transporter which increases synaptic 5HT. It is assumed that 5HT serves to diminsh sexual function, it is also believed that stimulation of 5HT2A receptors has negative effects on sexual functions.

Following strategies can be used to ease the side effects of SSRIs on sexual dysfunction:

Lowering the dose

Scheduling the sex

Changing the medicine

Adding some new drug

And finally meeting with the therapist