Sexual dysfunction in clinically stable patients with bipolar disorder receiving lithium

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Pharmacology
• Sexual Medicine

Background:

• Limited data exists on sexual dysfunction prevalence in bipolar disorder patients using lithium.
• Lithium is a common mood stabilizer for bipolar disorder, but its side effect profile requires ongoing investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in clinically stable bipolar disorder patients treated with lithium.
• To identify factors associated with sexual dysfunction in this patient population.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study evaluated 100 stable bipolar disorder patients on lithium.
• Patients completed the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale and Brief Adherence Rating Scale.
• Clinical data including functioning and adverse effects were recorded.

Main Results:

• One-third (37%) of patients reported sexual dysfunction.
• Sexual dysfunction correlated with older age (P=0.003), lower functioning (P=0.002), and more lithium-related adverse effects (P<0.001).
• Poor medication adherence was also associated with sexual dysfunction.

Conclusions:

• Sexual dysfunction affects a significant portion of bipolar disorder patients on lithium.
• Age, functioning, adverse effects, and adherence are key correlates of sexual dysfunction in patients on lithium therapy.