Sexual dysfunction and antidepressants: a review with emphasis on treatment

Sexual dysfunction (SD) is widely recognised as a potential side-effect of antidepressant therapy. SD has been reported with all classes of antidepressants (MAOIs, TCAs, SSRIs, SNRIs and newer antidepressants) in patients with depression and anxiety disorders. Increased attention has been directed at the SD produced by antidepressants; not only because its initial prevalence was underestimated but also because of the adverse impact that these side-effects can have on treatment compliance. Although SD is an important adverse effect of antidepressant medication, patients tend to be reluctant to report them if not directly questioned. This suggests that consideration of the doctor-patient relationship is needed when deciding on an appropriate treatment plan.