Genitourinary and sexual adverse effects of psychotropic medication.
OBJECTIVE
We review the adverse effects on genitourinary and sexual function associated with antidepressants, neuroleptics, lithium, and benzodiazepines, and suggest treatment strategies that may be used for their management.


METHODS
This article is based on systematic review of the existing literature, including more than 130 relevant articles on genitourinary and sexual effects of psychotropic medications.


RESULTS
We find that genitourinary function, including effects on continence and flow, and sexual function, including libido, erection, ejaculation and orgasm, may be altered by psychotropic administration. Many of these effects may be consequent to the impact of these medications on neurophysiologic systems.


CONCLUSIONS
Genitourinary and sexual adverse effects associated with psychotropic therapy are important areas of study and clinical concern that may affect patient comfort and compliance with treatment.
Clinical Psychopharmacology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, 02114.
M H
MH
Pollack
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Reiter
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Hammerness
D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004542:Ejaculation / Q000187:drug effects; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007246:Infertility / Q000139:chemically induced; D007989:Libido / Q000187:drug effects; D008297:Male; D009948:Orgasm / Q000187:drug effects; D010410:Penile Erection / Q000187:drug effects; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012725:Sexual Behavior / Q000187:drug effects*; D014549:Urinary Incontinence / Q000139:chemically induced
D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents