Antidepressant-associated sexual dysfunction in outpatients

Abstract

Background Antidepressant treatment is related to various sexual dysfunctions. This may cause discontinuation of the medication. This study aims to evaluate the level of sexual dysfunction of antidepressant users and the possible factors linked. Methods Demographic variables and sexual dysfunction level of 452 people in total (291 males and 161 females) were assessed by demographic data form and Psychotropic-related Sexual Dysfunction Questionnaire (PreSEXDQ). Results Sexual dysfunction was highly prevalent among both females (88.7%) and males (84.5%). Among females, significant differences were observed based on antidepressant type, with those using bupropion experiencing lower levels of sexual dysfunction compared to those on SSRIs, SNRIs, or vortioxetine. In contrast, no significant differences were found for males. Conclusions This highlights the importance of considering gender and medication type when addressing and managing psychotropic-related sexual dysfunction. Furthermore, additional studies are needed to determine whether a causal relationship exists between psychiatric medication-related sexual dysfunction and treatment discontinuation.