WILL PROZAC AFFECT MY SEXUALITY?

March 23rd, 2009

It may. Although early studies indicated that the incidence of sexual side effects associated with antidepressants was quite low, recent studies suggest otherwise. About 25% to 35% of patients taking all antidepressants, including Prozac, seem to have some sexual side effects including decreased desire, potency problems, delayed ejaculation, and trouble reaching orgasm.

Nonetheless, although a number of patients do report some altered sexual functioning with Prozac, and also with the newer SSRIs, they seldom stop taking the drug for this reason. Although they’re not pleased to have sexual difficulties, they are so grateful to feel normal in other respects that usually they learn to cope.

Other people (including three elderly men who reportedly had sexual functioning restored after many years of dysfunction) experience no problems in sexual functioning and often find themselves more interested in sex than they had been. Since depression causes a decrease in libido, most patients who recover from depression can confidently expect an increase in sexual desire. By lifting the depression, Prozac increases the libido and makes it easier to find enjoyment in all kinds of activities, including sex. However, the price may be delayed orgasm in one third of both men and women.

According to at least one non-scientifically controlled study published on six men and women receiving SSRIs and experiencing the typical sexual side effects, most of these symptoms were improved with the administration of Yohimbine.