Mechanisms and treatments of SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction.
SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction affects 30% to 50% or more of individuals who take these drugs for depression. Biochemical mechanisms suggested as causative include increased serotonin, particularly affecting 5HT2 and 5HT3 receptors; decreased dopamine; blockade of cholinergic and alpha-1 adrenergic receptors; inhibition of nitric oxide synthetase; and elevation of prolactin levels. Five approaches to treatment include conservative approaches such as wait and see, decrease dosage, and drug holidays. More aggressive strategy for treating SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction are changing antidepressants and augmentation.
Keltner
Norman L
NL
University of Alabama, Birmingham, AL, USA. keltnern@son.uab.edu
McAfee
Kelly M
KM
Taylor
Carey L
CL
D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006801:Humans; D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012735:Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000517:prevention & control*
D000928:Antidepressive Agents; D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors