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Sustained-release bupropion for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor-induced sexual dysfunction: a randomized,
P S Masand1, A K Ashton, S Gupta
1Department of Psychiatry, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA. givenss@upstate.edu
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|May 1, 2001
Summary
Low-dose bupropion did not effectively treat SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction in a small study. Further research with higher doses and more participants is needed for this common side effect.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are widely prescribed for depression and anxiety.
- Sexual dysfunction is a common and distressing side effect of SSRI treatment.
- Bupropion is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor with a different mechanism of action that may help mitigate SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of low-dose sustained-release bupropion in treating sexual dysfunction caused by SSRIs.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted with 30 adult participants.
- Participants had been on SSRIs for at least 6 weeks, were euthymic, and scored >19 on the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale.
- Participants received either 150 mg/day of sustained-release bupropion or placebo for 3 weeks.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were observed between the bupropion and placebo groups.
- Changes in Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale scores and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale scores did not differ significantly.
- There were no significant differences in reported side effects between the groups.
Conclusions:
- Low-dose sustained-release bupropion was not effective in treating SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction in this study.
- Higher doses of bupropion and larger sample sizes are recommended for future investigations.
- Further research is necessary to identify effective treatments for this prevalent side effect.
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