Many people like to believe that antidepressants have no side effects and cannot influence the everyday life of people. However, people have concerns about whether antidepressants lead people to have poor sexual functioning and sex drive.
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety or sleep apnea, then you may probably be hooked on antidepressants. Antidepressants are quite effective in calming down your nerves and getting you off any depressing issues for a while, but your female libido may be at risk. Studies have revealed that about 30% of individual adults who take certain antidepressants have a lower sex drive because certain chemicals in antidepressants are Serotonin uptake inhibitors hence they can hamper your chances of increasing sex activities an even reduce your chances of achieving orgasms easily.
Aside low Female libido, long term use of antidepressants have also been linked with sexual dysfunction in both males and females, such medications can also cause vaginal dryness, making sexual intercourse even more difficult. Between 25 and 75% of individuals who take antidepressants witnessed a sharp decline in their sex drives even from the first few days of taking such medications. The use of antidepressants has also been linked with decreased sensations around the genitals.
The effects of the use of antidepressants are far beyond the bedroom, such medications have also been linked with numerous psychological disorders, including low self-esteem in males. Those who take antidepressants may end up living low quality of lives because they tend to withdraw from interacting with the opposite sex, especially when they are aware of low female libido issues.
Revving up your female libido and dealing with the use of antidepressants
If you have to take antidepressants, then you have to check the type you are taking. Certain antidepressants like “Wellbutrin” are known to possess very lower chances of negative side effects; hence your female libido will remain at its optimal. Secondly, you can avoid the negative side effects of antidepressants by reducing your daily doses to between 75mg to 150mg or lower. Your doctor may help you experiment with your antidepressant doses until you are able to avoid some common sexually related side effects.
Secondly, you can protect your female libido from the effects of antidepressants by changing the time you take them. If you normally plan your sex after dinner, then you should take your antidepressant medications in the morning or afternoon. Levels of antidepressants are often at the highest within 30 minutes and 6 hours after ingesting them, thus you must plan the use of antidepressants at least 8 hours before you go to bed or get intimate with your partner. If you can’t change the time you take such medications, then you must be prepared to change the time you get intimate with your partner.
If possible, try as much as possible to divide your antidepressant doses into equal half and ingest them at different times of the day, in order to avoid the possible side effects of single doses. Some medical experts even suggest that you should aim at taking breaks in-between the use of antidepressants (two days off is ideal). Taking a minimum of two days off the use of antidepressants will help prevent the strong presence of residues in your blood and helps your body recover quickly.
To conclude, the role of antidepressants as sex drive stealers was discussed. We have provided you with the information supported by strong evidence. So, we would recommend that you choose your antidepressant wisely and seek professional guidance.
What Antidepressants Make You Lose Sex Drive?
Antidepressants are a commonly prescribed medication for treating various mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. While these medications can provide significant relief for individuals struggling with these conditions, they may also come with unwanted side effects, one of which is a decrease in sex drive.
The relationship between antidepressants and sexual function has been a topic of interest for researchers and healthcare professionals for many years. Studies have shown that certain antidepressants can cause a decrease in libido, difficulty achieving orgasm, and other sexual dysfunctions. This can have a significant impact on a person’s overall quality of life and relationships.
It is essential to note that not all antidepressants have the same effect on sexual function. Some may have a more significant impact, while others may have minimal or no effect at all. In this paper, we will explore the antidepressants that are most commonly associated with a decrease in sex drive.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed type of antidepressants. They work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and emotions. While these medications are generally well-tolerated, they have been linked to sexual side effects. Research has shown that SSRIs can cause a decrease in libido, difficulty achieving orgasm, and delayed ejaculation in both men and women.
Some of the most commonly prescribed SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), paroxetine (Paxil), and citalopram (Celexa). A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that paroxetine and fluoxetine were the most likely to cause sexual dysfunction, while sertraline and citalopram had a lower risk.
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
SNRIs are another type of antidepressant that works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. These medications are often prescribed for individuals who do not respond well to SSRIs. SNRIs, such as venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta), have also been linked to sexual side effects, including a decrease in libido and difficulty achieving orgasm.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
Tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline (Elavil) and imipramine (Tofranil), are an older class of antidepressants. They work by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. While these medications can be effective in treating depression, they are more likely to cause sexual side effects than other antidepressants. Research has shown that TCAs can cause a decrease in libido, difficulty achieving orgasm, and erectile dysfunction in men.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
MAOIs are another type of antidepressant that is not commonly prescribed, as they can have potentially dangerous interactions with certain foods and medications. They work by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. MAOIs, such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate), have been linked to sexual side effects, including a decrease in libido and difficulty achieving orgasm.
Atypical Antidepressants
Atypical antidepressants are a newer class of medications that work differently than other antidepressants. They target specific neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. While atypical antidepressants, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and mirtazapine (Remeron), are less likely to cause sexual side effects than other antidepressants, they can still have an impact on libido and sexual function.
Why do antidepressants cause a decrease in sex drive?
The exact mechanism behind the sexual side effects of antidepressants is not fully understood. However, it is believed that the increase in serotonin levels caused by these medications can lead to a decrease in dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a significant role in sexual desire and arousal. Additionally, antidepressants can also affect the hormone levels in the body, which can further contribute to a decrease in libido and sexual function.
What can be done to manage the sexual side effects of antidepressants?
If you are experiencing a decrease in sex drive or other sexual side effects while taking antidepressants, it is essential to speak with your doctor. They may be able to adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication that is less likely to cause sexual dysfunction. In some cases, your doctor may also prescribe another medication, such as bupropion, to counteract the sexual side effects of antidepressants.
Additionally, there are some lifestyle changes that can help manage the sexual side effects of antidepressants. These include regular exercise, a healthy diet, and open communication with your partner about your concerns. Seeking therapy or counseling may also be beneficial in managing any emotional or relationship issues that may arise due to the sexual side effects of antidepressants.
In conclusion, while antidepressants can provide significant relief for individuals struggling with mental health disorders, they may also come with unwanted side effects, including a decrease in sex drive. It is essential to understand that not all antidepressants have the same effect on sexual function, and it is crucial to speak with your doctor if you are experiencing any sexual side effects. With proper management and open communication, it is possible to find a balance between managing your mental health and maintaining a satisfying sex life.
