Libido Problem_at wits end - Men's Health Message Board

Zat · 10-18-2002, 02:49 AM

I have problems with my sex drive, brought on by medication. I suffer from major depression and am taking an SSRI drug to deal with it. The problem is that any medications of that nature have an effect on sexual function.

Viagra isn't for me, what good would an erection be without the sex drive. What I was wondering is if anyone has heard of any drugs/herbs or suppliments that could help increase the sex drive. Right now I have no sex drive and because of that, no erectile function. Or to put it simply, I don't get horny at all. Any imput would be greatly appreciated.

thanx all,
zat

Lance2 · 10-18-2002, 03:39 AM

As I understand it, not SSRI's are as bad on sex drive and function as others. Have you talked with your doc about this? If not, I'd say start there with a very frank conversation about the effect the meds are having, he/she may be able to adjust or change meds to see if they can help you out. I"m not aware of other herbs or such that would help here, wish I did. Sorry you're going through this, what a bummer.

Zat · 10-18-2002, 10:55 PM

I goofed, the med that I'm on isn't an SSRI, but the side effects are about the same. Thanx for the reply Lance. I've got an appt. on the 4th to discuss med change. At 225mg I was ok but now am at 300mg of the effexor and that's what has caused all the problems.

thanx again,
Zat

mfree1 · 10-19-2002, 09:58 AM

Zat,

Effexor usually has fewer sexual side effects than some of the other SSRI's. Paxil and Celexa are notorious for ejaculatory disturbances.

I think you should chat with your doctor about the situation. Some patients are so happy to see their depression symptoms subside that they are willing to live with the sexual side effects. Others need to switch around their meds until they find one that treats depression and won't interefere with sex.

Good luck,

Mats.
(Nurse practitioner)

Zat · 10-19-2002, 10:50 PM

The drug that I'm checking into is Lexapro. It says 'delayed ejaculation' I can handle that. The Effexor hasn't just messed with the libido, it's caused me to have no erectile function also. I'll find out on the 4th. I may have to ask for a dosage reduction from the 300mg back to 225mg.

thanx,
Zat