What is the connection between SSRIS and sexual dysfunction?

sexual dysfunction, such as erectile problems, lack of interest in sex or inability to achieve orgasm, is exceptionally high when people use selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI). The main link between SSRI and sexual dysfunction is the frequency at which sexual dysfunction occurs using SSRI: approximately 30-70% of users. Some of the antidepressants that create more free serotonin are less likely to cause side effects than others, but also at a low end of 30% risk means that one of the three individuals who use these drugs will experience some sexual problems. Studies point out that it is difficult to determine the accurate relationship between serotonin backward and sexual problems, because all SSRIs have at least a weak effect on other neurotransmitters. The

, which seems to show the relationship between SSRIs and sexual dysfunction, are Provac®, Paxil® and Zoloft®. All these medication at least at least affect other neurotraNSmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine and acetylcholine. It is believed that the multiple action of these drugs on neurotransmitters other than serotonin may be part of the problem. Medicines that least affect these other brain chemicals can be associated with a lower but still clinically significant risk of sexual problems.

On the other hand, this theory may be refuted to some extent medicines that affect other neurotransmitters, but do not affect serotonin. The example is bupropion (Wellbutrin®). It is an atypical antidepressant that affects dopamine and norepinephrine and is one of the few antidepressants that does not cause sexual dysfunction. Its presence in a number of medicinal products used to treat depression suggests that inhibition of serotonin reuration is one of the key reasons why SSRI and sexual dysfunction are related. Can also have other explanations, such as the fact that more actionsThe combination of neurotransmitters is most likely to create sexual problems.

There are ways to interrupt the connection between SSRIS and sexual dysfunction. Doctors can prescribe medicines such as Viagra®, which treat symptoms such as erectile dysfunction as needed. Sometimes amphetamines like methylphenidate can help. Another option is to add bupropion as a complementary therapy to the main antidepressant or to switch patients to bupropion itself or other antidepressants with a lower profile of sexual side effects.

It should be noted that sometimes the connection between SSRIS and sexual dysfunction is beneficial. Men who suffer from premature ejaculation may be successful in solving a condition when they use SSRI. Because inhibition of serotonin reuptake tends to slow down a sexual reaction, it can improve the ability to maintain erection during a sexual meeting.