Which antidepressants would cause sexual dysfunction? (ChatGPT, 2024-11-7)
Sexual dysfunction is a relatively common side effect of certain antidepressants, particularly those that affect serotonin levels. Here are the antidepressants most commonly associated with sexual side effects:
1. SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
• Fluoxetine (Prozac)
• Sertraline (Zoloft)
• Paroxetine (Paxil) – Paroxetine tends to have a higher incidence of sexual side effects.
• Citalopram (Celexa)
• Escitalopram (Lexapro)
SSRIs are well-known for causing sexual side effects, including reduced libido, delayed orgasm, and difficulty achieving orgasm in both men and women.
2. SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors)
• Venlafaxine (Effexor)
• Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
SNRIs can also cause sexual dysfunction, though the incidence might be slightly lower than with SSRIs.
3. Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
• Amitriptyline
• Nortriptyline
• Clomipramine
TCAs can lead to sexual side effects, though they are generally less commonly prescribed for depression today due to side effects.
4. MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors)
• Phenelzine (Nardil)
• Tranylcypromine (Parnate)
MAOIs can also cause sexual dysfunction, although they are used less frequently due to dietary restrictions and interactions.
Antidepressants with Lower Risk of Sexual Side Effects
Some antidepressants are associated with a lower incidence of sexual dysfunction, such as:
• Bupropion (Wellbutrin) – Often prescribed as an alternative for those experiencing sexual side effects from SSRIs or SNRIs.
• Mirtazapine (Remeron) – Has a lower risk of sexual side effects, though it may cause other side effects like sedation or weight gain.
Switching to a different medication or adjusting the dosage can sometimes help alleviate sexual side effects. Adding medications like bupropion to counteract these effects is another strategy some doctors use.
