title: Second generation antipsychotics improve sexual dysfunction in schizophrenia: a randomised controlled trial.
abstract: The impact of antipsychotic drug treatment on sexual function was investigated during a randomised trial comparing first generation antipsychotics (FGAs) to (nonclozapine) second generation antipsychotics (SGAs). Sexual function and quality of life were (rater-blind) assessed in 42 patients with DSM-IV schizophrenia (aged 18-65) using the self-report version of the Derogatis Interview for Sexual Function (DISF-SR) and the Heinrichs Quality of Life Scale (QLS), prior to, and 12 weeks following, a change in medication from an FGA drug to either an FGA or SGA drug. SGAs significantly improved sexual function compared to FGAs. Change in sexual function was associated with change in quality of life. Where impaired sexual functioning is a distressing adverse effect of treatment with an FGA agent, consideration should be given to switching to an SGA.
authors.affiliation: Mental Health and Neurodegeneration Research Group, The University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK.
authors.forename: Ahmed
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Mahmoud
authors.forename: Karen P
authors.initials: KP
authors.lastname: Hayhurst
authors.forename: Richard J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Drake
authors.forename: Shôn W
authors.initials: SW
authors.lastname: Lewis