[Sexual dysfunction associated with psychotropic drugs and treatment options]

Area of Science:

• Neuropharmacology
• Psychiatry
• Sexual Medicine

Background:

• Sexual dysfunction is a significant adverse effect of psychotropic medications.
• This dysfunction threatens patient quality of life and treatment compliance.
• Psychotropic agents impact sexual response through neurobiological mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the incidence of sexual dysfunction across various psychopharmacological classes.
• To review available treatment options for drug-induced sexual disorders.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search and review of relevant studies.

Main Results:

• Antidepressants and antipsychotics are primary contributors to sexual dysfunction.
• Mechanisms include serotonergic agonism, anti-dopaminergic effects, and prolactin elevation.
• All phases of the sexual response cycle can be affected.

Conclusions:

• Anticipate and plan for sexual dysfunction when initiating psychotropic treatment.
• Prioritize management of the primary psychiatric disorder.
• Limited evidence-based strategies exist for managing sexual side effects.