SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction is a hyposexual disorder caused by the use of anti-depressant medications. Anti-depressants are well known to negatively affect sexual function and this is one of the most common reasons that many people choose to come off these medicines.

SSRIs are Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors – a class of medications commonly used to treat both depression and anxiety disorders. While these medications are certainly effective for some people struggling with these conditions, they can sometimes cause a wide range of side effects – most notably, sexual dysfunction.

In this article, I go over SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction remedies that have been tested and found to be effective.

Symptoms

The symptoms of SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction can vary but mostly include:

• Decreased Libido
• Erectile Dysfunction: Difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection
• Anorgasmia: Difficulty or inability to achieve orgasm despite adequate sexual stimulation.
• Delayed Ejaculation (in Men)
• Decreased Sexual Arousal: Including less genital sensitivity or lubrication (in women).
• Reduced Genital Sensation
• Painful Intercourse

For some people, the symptoms may reduce over time as their body adjusts to the medication but for others, the sexual dysfunction may remain as long as they continue taking the SSRI medication. Symptoms usually improve after stopping the medication, but the rate and extent of recovery can vary from person to person. For some, sexual function may return to normal fairly quickly (within a few weeks), while others may experience a slower recovery over several months. In rare cases, some individuals might experience persistent symptoms even after discontinuing the medication – This is a condition known as post-SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD).

Remedies for SSRI-Induced Sexual Dysfunction:

Maca

Maca is a medicinal herb that is frequently used for hormone-related and sexual function disorders. Its a very popular remedy for common issues such as erectile dysfunction and menopause. Maca been found to significantly improve symptoms of SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction in, particularly in women (see study).

Saffron

Saffron is a well-known spice with a wide range of health benefits especially for sexual health as well as mental health. Saffron has been found to effectively treat SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction in men (see study). I am very much in favor of this spice as it has also been found to improve the symptoms of depression and anxiety – making it a potential alternative to anti-depressants (see study).

Rosa Damascena

Also known as Rose Oil, Rosa Damascena is used in Iranian tradition medicine and is known for its antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and anti-depressant properties. Its a clinical trial, supplementation with Rosa Damascena resulted in improvement of symptoms in males with SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction after 4-8 weeks (see study).

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo Biloba is well-known for its cognitive-enhancing and adaptogenic properties. Its shown promise for many conditions including sexual health. In one clinical trial, supplementation with Ginkgo Biloba resulted in improved symptoms of SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction for both males and females, however, the results were more prominent in females (see study). It is important to note that there are other studies suggesting that the effects of Ginkgo Biloba for this condition are not much greater than a placebo.

Of all of these, my preference is Saffron because it possesses both anti-depressant properties without the harsh side-effects and also improves SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction.

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(Always use medicinal herbs under the supervision of a doctor)
For more information contact me at doctornishal@gmail.com

by Dr. Nishal R.
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