Drugs affecting sexual function

Sexual adverse side-effects associated with various psychotropics 

High capacity to cause the specific adverse effect Moderate capacity to cause the specific adverse effect Minor capacity to cause the specific adverse effect Negligible capacity to cause the specific adverse effect The adverse effect has not been reported with this drug 

Meston CM, Frohlich PF. The neurobiology of sexual function. Arch Gen Psychiatry 2000 57 1012-1030. 

Halaris A. Neurochemical aspects of the sexual response cycle. CNS Spectr 2003 8 211-216. 

Segraves, RT. Pharmacologic management of sexual dysfunction benefits and limitations. CNS Spectr 2003 8 225-229. 

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A large number of drugs, whether prescribed or recreational, can affect sexual function (3). These drugs include ... 

The mechanisms by which thiazides affect erectile dysfunction or libido are unclear, but it has been suggested that they have a direct effect on vascular smooth muscle cells or reduce the response to catecholamines. Sexual dysfunction does not appear to be mediated by either a low serum potassium concentration or a low blood pressure. Since sexual dysfunction can adversely affect the quality of life of hypertensive patients, physicians or health-care providers should take an accurate baseline sexual history and monitor sexual status for changes during therapy. If there are significant changes in sexual function, diuretic therapy can be withdrawn and an alternative drug class substituted. However, not uncommonly sexual dysfunction will persist despite withdrawal of the diuretic, suggesting that elements of the hj pertensive state itself contribute to the process. 

Anabolic steroids, antidepressants and drugs of abuse affect libido, potency, and ejaculatory function. Anabolic steroids are derivatives of testosterone, and have strong genitotropic effects. There is published evidence indicating that anabolic steroids increases sexual desire however, the frequency of erectile dysfunction is also increased. Treatment with the antidepressant fluoxetine has been associated with sexual side effects including delayed or nonexistent ejaculation and hyposexuality. Mice treated in utero with the anideukemic agent 5-aza-2/-deoxycytidine exhibit abnormal reproductive behavior and low reproductive capacity. 

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