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Sexual Dysfunction and Its Correlates Among Men Dependent on Natural Opium
Dinesh Kumar1, Navratan Suthar1, Mukesh K Swami1
1All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.
Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine
|November 5, 2025
Summary
Natural opium use frequently causes sexual dysfunction in men, linked to dependence severity. Clinicians should screen for and treat sexual health issues in these patients for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Sexual Health
- Substance Use Disorders
Background:
- Opioids impact sexual function via the endocrine system.
- Limited data exists on natural opium's effects on sexual health, particularly in India.
- Natural opium is sometimes wrongly perceived as an aphrodisiac.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate sexual dysfunction in men dependent on natural opium.
- To identify factors associated with sexual dysfunction in this population.
- To assess hormonal profiles and their relation to sexual health.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 107 natural opium-dependent men.
- Utilized validated questionnaires: ASEX, IIEF, SODQ, SKAQ-II.
- Measured serum levels of testosterone, FSH, LH, and prolactin.
Main Results:
- High rates of sexual dysfunction reported (47% ASEX, 91% IIEF).
- Low testosterone (22%) and LH (16%) were common; hormonal imbalances noted.
- Severity of opioid dependence significantly predicted sexual dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- Natural opium dependence is strongly associated with sexual dysfunction.
- The intensity of dependence is a key predictor of sexual health issues.
- Clinical assessment and management of sexual dysfunction are crucial for improving treatment outcomes.
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