Sexual side effects associated with conventional and atypical antipsychotics

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Sexual side effects of psychotropic medications are increasingly recognized.
• Antipsychotic medications are associated with various sexual side effects in men and women.
• The full extent of sexual dysfunction caused by antipsychotics requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the sexual side effects of antipsychotic medications.
• To categorize these side effects based on the sexual response cycle.
• To provide guidance on clinical evaluation and treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of sexual side effects associated with antipsychotic medications.
• Categorization of side effects by interference with the sexual response cycle.
• Discussion of clinical evaluation and management options.

Main Results:

• All antipsychotic medications, both conventional and atypical, are linked to sexual side effects.
• Side effect profiles vary based on receptor affinities and prolactin levels, but prediction is not currently possible.
• Sexual side effects can impact various phases of the sexual response cycle.

Conclusions:

• Sexual side effects of antipsychotics are underestimated and understudied.
• These side effects can negatively impact patient quality of life and treatment compliance.
• Clinicians must be knowledgeable about the classification, evaluation, and treatment of antipsychotic-induced sexual dysfunction.