We’re lucky to live in an age with access to modern medicine. It can treat, heal, and cure many debilitating conditions, giving people a second chance at a happy, healthy, long life. But there’s a downside to so many medications as well: sometimes, these prescriptions can cause problems in the bedroom. Below are some of the most common meds that cause low libido.
Psychiatric Meds That Can Affect Your Libido
Some of the most common medications out there are antidepressants. These life-saving drugs can help people begin to feel like themselves again. However, by some estimates, just under half of those taking them may feel sexual side effects. This reaction is most common with a group of antidepressants called SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors).
These side effects can result in an inability to orgasm, a loss of interest in sex, or even pain during sex. If you start experiencing physical pain, it’s always a good idea to get checked out by your doctor to ensure nothing else is contributing to the pain.
Managing depression can be a tricky thing to do with these sexual side effects. It’s a bit of a balancing act to find a medication that can help improve your mood but not have an impact on your sex drive as well. On one hand, being depressed is associated with a decrease in libido—but so are many of the prescription treatments for depression. It may seem as though no matter what you do, your sex life is doomed. However, the truth is that you have a lot of options. Changing to a different SSRI or a completely different class of antidepressants can alleviate your symptoms. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms because you deserve a vibrant sex life.
Lithium is another drug that is helpful for people with Bipolar Disorder. However, it can also decrease your libido significantly. There are workarounds, though, so if you suddenly become disinterested in sex, you should mention this to your doctor.
Talking To Your Doctor
Some people feel intimidated at the prospect of talking to their doctor—especially about sexual side effects. And doctors may not ask, especially if they haven’t had education about talking to their patients about sexual issues. But you should never suffer in silence, especially when an easy medication switch may help you restore your libido. So, tell your doctor, and if you don’t feel like your specific symptoms are being taken seriously, reach out to a specialist who can help you investigate your sexual issues.
Ultimately, your quality of life is what’s most important. And it’s worth a little trial and error until you find the perfect dosage, brand, and other mitigating factors to help you live your life happily and healthily. So don’t give up—keep trying until you find a solution that works for you.
Want More Science-Backed Tips on How to Get Your Libido Back?
I’ve helped many people rediscover the fire in their bedroom. When you’re ready, contact me for a free consultation.
Bio: Dr. Nazanin Moali is a clinical psychologist and sex therapist in the Los Angeles area. She works with various individuals to understand and improve their sexuality. Dr. Moali conducts personal consultation sessions in her Torrance and Hermosa Beach offices, or via a secure, online video-counseling platform. Click here to take the sex quiz for women.