Antidepressants and sexual dysfunction.
OBJECTIVE
Many patients with depression suffer from sexual dysfunction and sexual dysfunction is a recognized side-effect of antidepressants. The aim of this review was to examine the prevalence of psychosexual dysfunction associated with antidepressants, and to review treatment options which are specific to the affected component of sexual functioning and antidepressants.


METHODS
Comprehensive literature review using Medline and Cochrane databases.


RESULTS
Up to 70% of patients with depression may have sexual dysfunction. Tricyclic antidepressants, selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitors and venlafaxine are most and the non-serotonergic antidepressants and duloxetine least likely to produce sexual dysfunction. Pharmacological treatment options include antidepressants less likely associated or 'antidotes' to reverse sexual dysfunction.


CONCLUSIONS
Sexual dysfunction may be a preventable or treatable side-effect of antidepressants. Patients need routinely to be asked about sexual function to identify problems early. If sexual dysfunction is ignored it may maintain the depression, compromise treatment outcome and lead to non-compliance.
Werneke
U
U
Department of Psychiatry, Homerton University Hospital, London, UK. uwerneke@easynet.co.uk [corrected]
Northey
S
S
Bhugra
D
D
D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy*; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012307:Risk Factors; D012735:Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology
D000928:Antidepressive Agents