Antidepressants, opioids, finasteride, and other drugs may affect desire. Here is how to respond safely.
A common overlooked cause
Some prescription medicines can reduce sexual interest or make arousal and orgasm more difficult. Antidepressants, especially certain SSRIs, are familiar examples. Opioids may suppress hormone function; some other medicines can also contribute.
Two problems can overlap
A medicine may influence erections, ejaculation, mood, and desire in different ways. Being unable to reach orgasm is not always the same thing as wanting sex less.
Timing is a clue
Make a list of what you take, including supplements and over-the-counter products, and note when each started or changed. Also record whether the sexual symptom appeared at roughly the same time.
Do not stop treatment on your own
Stopping an antidepressant, heart medicine, or other prescription suddenly can cause harm. A prescribing clinician may consider adjusting dose, changing medicines, treating sexual side effects, or keeping the medicine because its benefits outweigh the drawbacks.
Ask a focused question
“Could any of my medicines be contributing to my lower interest in sex, and what are the safest options?” is a practical place to start.
What should you do next?
Write down what changed, how long it has been happening, what medicines you take, and what else is going on in your health or relationships. Take that information to a qualified clinician if the problem is persistent, distressing, or unexplained. A good plan starts with understanding your actual situation.
Endocrine Society: Testosterone Therapy Guideline · NIDDK: Sexual Health and ED · AUA: Testosterone Deficiency Guideline
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