A Dorevitch1, H Davis. 1. Hadassah-Hebrew University School of Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To report two cases of sexual dysfunction induced by fluvoxamine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). SETTING: University teaching hospital. PATIENTS: Two depressed patients who developed ejaculation and orgasmic difficulties after initiation of fluvoxamine therapy. DISCUSSION: The literature concerning sexual dysfunction with serotonergic antidepressants is reviewed, and speculated mechanisms for this untoward effect are discussed. CONCLUSIONS: Sexual dysfunction associated with antidepressant drugs, including SSRIs, may be underreported. This troublesome adverse effect may significantly affect patient comfort and compliance. Careful evaluation of sexual function is warranted, prior to and during drug treatment, especially as more serotonergic antidepressant agents become available.
OBJECTIVE: To report two cases of sexual dysfunction induced by fluvoxamine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). SETTING: University teaching hospital. PATIENTS: Two depressedpatients who developed ejaculation and orgasmic difficulties after initiation of fluvoxamine therapy. DISCUSSION: The literature concerning sexual dysfunction with serotonergic antidepressants is reviewed, and speculated mechanisms for this untoward effect are discussed. CONCLUSIONS:Sexual dysfunction associated with antidepressant drugs, including SSRIs, may be underreported. This troublesome adverse effect may significantly affect patient comfort and compliance. Careful evaluation of sexual function is warranted, prior to and during drug treatment, especially as more serotonergic antidepressant agents become available.