Antidepressant-Induced Sexual Dysfunction

This article reviews current evidence regarding sexual side effects of antidepressant drugs. Controlledstudies have demonstrated that some antidepressant drugs have adverse effects on orgasm andlibido. Orgasmic dysfunction and ejaculatory delay appear to be common sexual side effects of theserotonin selective reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). A variety of treatment options are available if a patientexperiences antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction. Often, modification of the pharmacologic regimenwill restore sexual function while maintaining antidepressant activity. The frequency of sexualside effects reported with the SSRIs mandates that the clinician inquire about sexual function if theseagents are used. Bupropion and nefazodone appear to have an unusually low incidence of sexual sideeffects.