Sex! the lack of it.

[dixy]

Hi guys,

I'm a University student and at the age where I'd like to be having great sexual experiences. The problem is, I am on Cipralex and I haven't had an orgasm ever since I started taking it...The medication doesn't really seem to be helping as much as Id like either. The anxiety/depression is still there, but It is helping with my insomnia a bit.

The sexual dysfunction is pretty stressful as well, but I do feel my anxiety is severe enough that I need to be on medication...Does anyone have the same side effect?

[Velden]

The majority of SSRI users will have sexual side effects.  For some unlucky indivisuals, the sexual side effects do not go away after stopping the medications.  I used to enjoy sex, orgasm easily, have a high libido. Prozac made my genitals numb, wiped out my libido, made it nearly impossible to become aroused, and made my orgasms feel pleasureless-- just muscle contractions. It's as if the part of my brain related to sex and pleasureable feelings has been ablated.  
Please inform yourself about this condition, known as PSSD (post SSRI sexual dysfunction). Do a google search.  There are case reports in peer reviewed journals; a literature review in the Open Psychology Journal;  a credible youtube video by Man from UK;  a yahoo support group with many credible reports of PSSD. Do not assume that any side effects of SSRIs are benign.

[Paxiled]

Have the same problem, have with every antidepressant I've been on and I've been on a few.  On the other hand, women who like sex like this.  What you can do is find out what really turns you on and learn to get your orgasms that way.  It may not be quick, but you can learn to do it with an understanding and patient partner.  Not that those are easy to find!  I've heard that Prozac has less of this effect for most people, and if you find something that really works for you, some psychiatrists will add wellbutrin to counter the sexual side effects.  That means adding another med with more side effects, so I've vote for learning about your sexuality and how to enhance it, but there is stuff out there that might help.

[nursegirl6572]

I second what CJ said....

The only thing I want to add is to be sure you are 100% SAFE with your sexual experiences.  In this environment, with the addition of parties, alcohol...it is very easy for people to lose their inhibitions and place themselves at risk.

Adopt a CONDOM ALWAYS policy, and try to get to know any prospective partner first (if you aren't in a relationship).  Also, if you are sexually active...visit your local planned parenthood clinic once a year for preventative testing.  

Good sex is sometimes unforgettable, but safe sex is something to NEVER forget.  :0)

[cj29]

Unfortunately, this can be a common side effect of these types of medications, but in my opinion, you can definitely adjust to it and enjoy your sex life.  How long have you been on the medication?  Remember that they can take a little while to 'kick in.'  Also, I agree with you that if you feel that you need to be on it, then you are doing the right thing.  There are pros and cons to any medication you take, but if you and your doctor believe that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks then you seem to be on the right track in confronting this in my opinion.  For me, these types of medications worked, but the most important step I took was to seek help through counseling to better understand and deal with my sources of stress and anxiety.  Keep us posted!