Substance/Medication-Induced Sexual Dysfunction
A sexual dysfunction that develops in close temporal association with starting, changing, or stopping a substance or medication known to be capable of causing sexual side effects.
Overview
Substance/medication-induced sexual dysfunction involves a clinically significant disturbance in sexual function that develops in close temporal association with substance intoxication, medication initiation, dose change, or withdrawal, involving a substance or medication known to be capable of causing the symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can include reduced desire, difficulty with arousal, delayed or absent orgasm, or other sexual difficulties that began after starting or changing a medication or substance. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
Certain medications, particularly some antidepressants and antipsychotics, along with alcohol and other substances, are well recognized causes of sexual side effects.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Counseling addressing the impact on relationships and self-esteem can be helpful alongside medical management.
Medication
Reviewing the medication regimen with the prescribing provider, who may consider a dose adjustment or alternative medication, is often an effective first step. Medication decisions should be made with a qualified prescribing healthcare professional. Do not start, stop, or change a prescribed medication based solely on information on this page.
Living With Substance/Medication-Induced Sexual Dysfunction
Do not stop a prescribed medication abruptly due to sexual side effects without first discussing options with the prescribing provider.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.
Emergency Situations
If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.
Outlook
Many individuals see improvement with a medication adjustment made in partnership with their prescriber.
Related Conditions
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute of Mental Health.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.