Until recently, experts have assumed thatsexual dysfunctionalways resolves after someone stops taking SSRIs.
But recent research indicates that sexual side effects, including ED, can persist even after SSRI treatment stops.
This article discusses post-SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD), including causes, treatment, prevention, and more.
Illustration by Julie Bang for Verywell Health
Some examples of SSRIs include:
In general, SSRIs are safe and effective intreating depression.
What Is Post-SSRI Sexual Dysfunction?
SSRIs have been prescribed to treat depression and other mental health disorders since 1987.
In 2006, researchers began to formally investigate a condition known as post-SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD) syndrome.
Some SSRIs are more likely than others to cause ED.
Lexapro is somewhat more likely to cause sexual side effects than Zoloft.
Learn vs. Zoloft.
Paxil sexual side effects in men include ED, low libido, anorgasmia, and genital anesthesia.
In women, Paxil may also cause inadequate lubrication.
Research suggests that Paxil is the SSRI most likely to cause ED and other kinds of sexual dysfunction.
Its a last-choice treatment for many healthcare providers if sexual dysfunction is a concern.
However, sexual dysfunction is slightly less common with Prozac than with other SSRIs.
SSRIs and Sexual Arousal
Its unclear exactly why SSRIs can lead to sexual dysfunction.
In addition to MDD, SNRIs are prescribed to treat anxiety disorders andchronic nerve pain.
Cymbalta sexual side effects include ED, delayed orgasm, and loss of interest in sex.
These side effects are especially pronounced among people who respond well to the drug overall.
For many years, they were considered the first-line treatment for depression.
They relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety by increasing the level of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
In fact, some research suggests that Wellbutrin can even improve sexual function and increase libido.
While SSRIs are generally safe and effective antidepressants, they often cause sexual side effects.
In some cases, the sexual side effects of SSRIs can persist even after you stop taking the medications.
This is a condition known as PSSD.
Common SSRIs include Zoloft, Lexapro, Prozac, and Paxil.
Of these, Paxil is the most likely to cause sexual dysfunction.
Other common antidepressants, such as SNRIs, TCAs, and MAOIs, also frequently lead to sexual dysfunction.
Research suggests that NDRIs such as Wellbutrin do not have the same sexual side effects as other antidepressants.
Viibryd, Trintellix, Remeron, and Emsam are also less likely to cause erectile dysfunction.
Sexual dysfunction can be stressful and challenging to navigate, especially if you’re already managing depression symptoms.
SSRIs and SNRIs are most commonly associated with sexual side effects.
Between 25% and 73% of people who take SSRIs experience sexual dysfunction.
Sexual side effects may include loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, and delayed or diminished orgasms.
More rarely, SSRIs may lead to genital anesthesia or painful ejaculation.
Sexual side effects are common with Zoloft (sertraline).
Many people who take sertraline to treat depression experience diminished orgasms, erectile dysfunction, and delayed ejaculation.
Others experience a loss of libido and reduced overall interest in sex.
For most people, erectile dysfunction from antidepressants is not permanent.
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