Journal article
Characterizing post-SSRI sexual dysfunction and its impact on quality of life through an international online survey
The International journal of risk & safety in medicine, Vol.32(4), pp.321-329
01/01/2021
DOI: 10.3233/JRS-210039
PMID: 34366299
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Post-SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD) is an underrecognized and poorly understood medical condition characterized by sexual dysfunction that persists despite SSRI discontinuation.
OBJECTIVE: We conducted a survey of individuals with PSSD to better characterize this condition and its impact on various quality of life concerns.
METHODS: Surveys were distributed to an online support group for individuals with PSSD. Surveys assessed medications suspected of causing PSSD and symptoms experienced during and after treatment. Respondents reported the trajectory of their condition, the efficacy of different treatments, and the impact of PSSD on their quality of life.
RESULTS: 239 survey responses were included in this study. A majority of respondents had a history of SSRI use (92%) compared to only SNRI or atypical antidepressant use (8%). The overall severity of symptoms improved for 45% and worsened or remained the same for 37% of respondents after discontinuing treatment with serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Only 12% of respondents reported being counseled regarding potential sexual dysfunction while taking antidepressants. The majority rated the effect of PSSD on their quality of life as extremely negative (59%) or very negative (23%).
CONCLUSION: PSSD can have an overwhelmingly negative impact on quality of life. Currently, it is unclear why certain individuals develop PSSD and there are no definitive treatments for this condition. Further research of PSSD and greater awareness of this condition is needed among prescribers of serotonin reuptake inhibitors to improve patient care.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- Characterizing post-SSRI sexual dysfunction and its impact on quality of life through an international online survey
- Creators
- Alaina Studt - University of IowaMargaret Gannon - University of IowaJoanna Orzel - University of IowaAshley Vaughan - University of IowaAmy M. Pearlman - University of Iowa
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Publication Details
- The International journal of risk & safety in medicine, Vol.32(4), pp.321-329
- Publisher
- Ios Press
- DOI
- 10.3233/JRS-210039
- PMID
- 34366299
- ISSN
- 0924-6479
- eISSN
- 1878-6847
- Number of pages
- 9
- Language
- English
- Date published
- 01/01/2021
- Academic Unit
- Urology
- Record Identifier
- 9984319979302771
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