Drugs & Sex

Since I’ve started antidepressants, my sex drive has been very low. Is this normal?

Low sex drive is unfortunately a common side effect of antidepressants, with some being more problematic than others. Physical symptoms of that might include vaginal dryness, delayed or blocked orgasm, and trouble getting and maintaining an erection. Furthermore, side effects like weight gain, nausea, and tiredness can decrease one’s desire for sex. There are options to try and alleviate this issue. Talking to your doctor about your dosage or your prescription is one option. It is important to not make any changes to your medications without first consulting your doctor. Changing your dose or your medication will take some time to feel the adjustment. It’s important to be patient. Moreover, it could be that you just need to wait for the side effects related to libido to go away. Many people whose depression causes low libido find that medication helps them get their sexual function back. Finally, it is important to keep communication with your partner open and effective. You both should want the best for your health and not just the health of the relationship.