Most of the commonly prescribed antidepressants have sexual side-effects. These side-effects may include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, delayed ejaculation or anorgasmia. Generally, sexual side-effects persist throughout the course of treatment, although some patients may rarely develop a tolerance to the drugs. Wellbutrin (bupropion), Serzone (nefazodone) and Remeron (mirtazapine) are the least likely to cause sexual side-effects. Strategies for countering sexual side-effects include:
- Schedule your daily dose so that you are taking it right after you would generally engage in sexual activity.
- Talk with your doctor about switching to a medication with a lower risk of sexual side-effects.
- Talk with your doctor about lowering your dose.
- Talk with your doctor about taking a medication to counteract sexual side-effects, such as Viagra (sildenafil) or Yocon (yohimbine).
- Talk with your doctor about taking a "drug holiday" (stopping medication for a day or two prior to sexual activity).
Sources:
Conway, Melanie W. and Merry N. Miller. "Mood Disorders." Conn's Current Therapy 2007. Eds. Robert E. Rakel and Edward T. Bope. 59th Ed. Philadelphia: Saunders Elsevier, 2007.
Segraves, Robert Taylor. "Sexual Dysfunction Associated with Antidepressant Therapy." Urologic Clinics of North America. 34.4 (2007): 575-9.
Vasile, Russell G. "Chapter 47 - Medical Treatment of Depression." Psychiatric Secrets. Eds. James L. Jacobson and Alan M. Jacobson. 2nd ed. Philadelphia: Hanley and Belfus, 2001.
