Antidepressants as the name suggests, are prescribed to people with mental health issues. Although the medications are effective for treating the underlying health condition, they may have unwanted side effects.
In this blog, we will take a deeper look at antidepressant-induced erectile dysfunction and find out various ways to help the condition.
Understanding SSRI Induced Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is a sexual dysfunction wherein a man is unable to get or sustain an action needed for sexual intercourse. Also commonly referred to as impotence, it is the most common sexual disorder in men and may affect men of all ages.Â
It could happen due to a wide variety of reasons like physical ailments, obesity, hormonal imbalance, and psychological factors like stress and anxiety.
The interesting part is the link between antidepressants and erectile dysfunction. A man may take antidepressants for his mental condition or to improve sexual functioning that is suffering due to mental health.
However, one may end up with erectile difficulties after taking the antidepressants, which can be a worrying state.Â
Antidepressants are the type of medication used to treat depression and mental health conditions. They act by altering the levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a type of antidepressant that acts primarily on serotonin levels in the brain.
Serotonin and ED brain chemicals may not be the right companions and might cause some trouble. A change in serotonin levels may affect bodily functions, including sexual arousal and erectile functioning.
SSRIs induced erectile dysfunction is related to the side effects of antidepressants. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors might be as effective as antidepressants, but they sometimes end up interfering with sexual function in some men.
The mechanism of action of how SSRIs cause sexual dysfunction is not well understood. It is possible that it happens due to changes in neurotransmitter levels and receptor sensitivity in the brain.
We have also encountered men facing low libido from antidepressants along with orgasm problems. Difficulties in achieving erection on antidepressants remains a common complaint in men.
These issues can drastically impact sex life which further affects the overall quality of life. Some men decide to randomly quit the medication, which may not be a great idea and can cause withdrawal symptoms. It is ideal to talk to your healthcare provider and find a suitable treatment approach.
Symptoms of SSRI Induced Erectile Dysfunction
Men experiencing erectile dysfunction due to antidepressants may exhibit various symptoms like –
- Difficulty in getting or sustaining an erection
- Reduced sex drive and interest in sexual activities
- Delayed ejaculation
- Difficulty in achieving an orgasm
Who can get SSRI Induced Erectile Dysfunction?
Everyone who is on medication for mental health disorders does not necessarily suffer from erectile dysfunction. However, some risk factors increase the chances of developing SSRI-induced ED.Â
These are –
- Specific SSRI medication that may affect sexual functioning
- Dosage of medication
- Individual response to the drug
- Underlying medical conditions
- Other psychological issues
Diagnosis of SSRI-Induced Erectile Dysfunction
If you are suffering from erectile difficulties, it is extremely important to take the first step and seek help. It is important to understand the difference between erectile dysfunction and SSRI-induced erectile dysfunction.
The key difference lies in the timing of erectile issues one faces. It is possible to get stressed and depressed due to erectile difficulties. One needs to know if they suffered from erectile issues after starting antidepressants or if they had erectile issues before starting the medication.
Your sexologist can help you identify the root cause of the dysfunction with a few questionnaires and other diagnostic tools. Accurate diagnosis is the sure-shot way to treat sexual difficulties.
Treatment of SSRI-Induced Erectile Dysfunction
It is crucial to report the symptoms to a sexual health expert. The experts can suggest various approaches for treating SSRI-induced ED. These include –
Dosage – The expert can reduce the dosage and monitor if sexual functioning gets better. It is crucial to set the dose so there are minimal side effects.
Pills – Your doctor may add another drug, such as a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, that will act on improving erectile functioning.
Psychological support – Your sexual health expert may advise you to go for counselling if they feel there are psychological factors that are causing erectile dysfunction.
Alternatives – If required, your healthcare provider can give you SSRI alternatives for your depression or mental health disorders, which will not cause sexual side effects.
Lifestyle changes – Everything in the end boils down to lifestyle changes. Making healthy lifestyle choices is a must for enjoying a good sex life. Having a balanced diet and managing stress can help you lead a good quality of life.
Alternative treatments – Your doctor can suggest alternative treatments like supplements, acupuncture, etc to alleviate the SSRI-induced erectile dysfunction.
Bottom Line
SSRI-induced erectile dysfunction can put you in a difficult situation. It may get overwhelming to fight depression with added sexual difficulties.Â
If you suffer from any dysfunction, you should talk to your healthcare provider. They can help identify the exact cause and suggest suitable treatment strategies to deal with sexual issues.
Dr. Arora’s Clinic: FAQs on Antidepressants and Sexual Dysfunction
Q: Which antidepressant is best to avoid sexual dysfunction?
A: While all antidepressants can potentially cause sexual side effects, some medications have a lower risk than others.
It’s important to discuss these options with your doctor to see if they are suitable for your individual needs and medical history.
Q: How often do SSRIs cause sexual dysfunction?
A: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are a common class of antidepressants, and sexual dysfunction is a potential side effect. The exact frequency is difficult to determine, with studies showing varying rates. It can also depend on the specific medication, dosage, and individual factors.
If you experience sexual dysfunction while taking an SSRI, talk to your doctor. They may be able to adjust your dosage, switch medications, or recommend additional strategies to manage the side effects.
Q: Does sertraline stop you from ejaculating?
A: Sertraline is an SSRI, and like other SSRIs, it can cause difficulty ejaculating in some people. This is not a guaranteed side effect, but it’s a possibility.
If you are experiencing this side effect with sertraline, consult your doctor. There may be alternative medications or strategies to manage both your depression and sexual health.
Q: Is erectile dysfunction from antidepressants permanent?
A: In most cases, erectile dysfunction caused by antidepressants is not permanent. Once you stop taking the medication, the side effects typically subside over time. However, it’s important to discuss any concerns with your doctor, as they can advise you on the best course of action.
Remember: This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns about sexual dysfunction related to antidepressants, consult a sexologist doctor to discuss your individual situation and treatment options.