Abstract
The incidence of sexual dysfunction (SD) associated with antidepressants may be higher than the rate reported in the product information. We conducted a study using a survey that included the Arizona Sexual Experiences (ASEX) scale to assess the incidence of SD before and with current antidepressant use. We also set out to determine if differences exist between antidepressant classes. Forty-four patients (12 males and 32 females) responded to the survey. Data was stratified into 3 groups, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs; n = 36), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs; n = 7), and novel agents (bupropion and nefazodone, or NA; n = 7). For the SSRI subgroup, there were significant increases in ASEX scores, indicative of SD after treatment. There were no differences in ASEX scores in the TCA or NA group. The incidence of SD was highest for the SSRIs (36%). Clinical implications of these findings include educating patients, improving clinical assessment, and enhancing awareness about options available to manage antidepressant-induced SD.
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