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[Sexual side effects from treatment with SSRI]
Cecilie Lybeck Hutters1, Annamaria Giraldi1,2
1Sexologisk Klinik, Psykiatrisk Center København, Rigshospitalet.
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|April 12, 2022
Summary
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) frequently cause sexual dysfunction. Management strategies involve dose changes or medication alternatives, with some patients experiencing persistent post-SSRI sexual issues.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are widely prescribed antidepressants.
- Sexual dysfunction is a common and distressing side effect of SSRI treatment.
- The underlying mechanism is linked to serotonergic pathways affecting sexual response.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the incidence and mechanisms of SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction.
- To discuss management strategies for patients experiencing these side effects.
- To highlight the phenomenon of persistent post-SSRI sexual dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on SSRI treatment and sexual side effects.
- Analysis of reported frequencies of sexual dysfunction with different SSRIs.
- Examination of proposed management approaches and persistent dysfunction.
Main Results:
- High incidence (over 70%) of sexual dysfunction reported with sertraline, citalopram, and paroxetine.
- Escitalopram and fluvoxamine appear to have a lower propensity for causing sexual dysfunction.
- Persistent sexual dysfunction after SSRI cessation (post-SSRI sexual dysfunction) is noted in a subset of patients.
Conclusions:
- SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction is prevalent and requires clinical attention.
- Strategies like dose reduction, switching SSRIs, or add-on therapies can manage side effects.
- Awareness of persistent post-SSRI sexual dysfunction is crucial for patient care.
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