Spontaneous remission of SSRI-induced orgasm delay

Orgasm delay is a common side effect of SSRIs,causing negative influence on patients' compliance and quality of life. A possible strategy for the management of SSRI-induced orgasm delay is waiting for tolerance to develop. The authors studied the natural course of SSRI-induced orgasm delay over a period of 6 months.

One hundred eight patients having been started on SSRIs were included in an open, naturalistic study. Sexual dysfunction was assessed at monthly intervals using a structured interview.

Twenty-six patients developed clinically relevant SSRI-induced orgasm delay. Eight patients (30.8%) reported complete remission of sexual dysfunction, while four patients (15.4%) noted a marked improvement. Four patients (15.4%) continued to describe severe orgasm delay at the end of the observation period. High severity of orgasm delay significantly correlated with lack of remission.

A significant proportion of patients, especially those with mild to moderate orgasm delay, develop tolerance within 6 months.