help for loss of libido due to effexor

[bbiscute]

I have been on effexor xr 112.5 mg and lorazapam 1.5mg 3xday for treatment of OCD and anxiety/depression for ten years.  My psychiatrist recommended adding wellbutrin to restore some sort of sexual function.  I have a very low libido, and can have an orgasm, but it is extremely difficult to achieve.  This is causing problems with my marriage, although my husband is a very loving and understanding man, I really would like to be able to respond to him.  I would like to know if there is any herbal supplements that may work for this problem, because I am concerned about adding another medication to the ones I already take.  I am concerned about the side effects of wellbutrin, as well as the withdrawl symptoms if I should have to discontinue taking the drug.  Thank you for any information you can offer me.

[Janice M Epp, PhD]

It’s not clear to me exactly what your concern is. It sounds like you’re saying you have low sexual desire, or perhaps low sexual interest.

There are no herbal supplements that have been proven to change sexual desire or interest. If you look at the labels of all of these, the first thing you’ll see is a disclaimer.

One of the drugs you’re taking has side effects which can affect your sexual desire or interest. Lorazepam can have sedative effects. Of course, when you’re feeling tired, it’s difficult to get excited about anything, including sex.

And Effexor is an anti-depressant which may inhibit your orgasmic ability.

When used in combination, these drugs can be very helpful in improving your anxiety and depression—in fact, for many, they’re a life-saver. And, as you have seen, they can also negatively impact your sexuality.

It’s great that your psychiatrist recommended Wellbutrin, which, for most people, has few side effects. Many people find that its addition can enhance their sexuality when taking other anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications.

Most people tolerate this medication well. When Wellbutrin side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.

Of course, all drugs can have withdrawal symptoms, so if you’re considering any change, you should always talk to your psychiatrist.

But I’d give Wellbutrin a nice, long audition period.

Have you considered the possibility that because you’ve been so focused on non-sexual issues, sex has indeed taken a back seat for quite some time—not just because of your medications. It’s going to take some energy now to put it on the front burner and focus on sex as a positive part of your life again. I’d encourage you to talk to your husband about this and begin to explore ways to have fun together again. Best of luck to you. Dr. J

[bbiscute]

Thank you so much for your kind, thoughtful reply.  I appreciate your answer.