Sexual Dysfunctions

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The global Pharmaceutical drug industry has reached a net worth of over $300 billion a year, however there has been miniature research done in the area of drug-induced sexual dysfunctions. (WHO, 2015) Positive sexual health and functioning are essential in the innate survive of human beings. Benefits of having a lively libido; sexual desire, include: an increase in life energy, protects other health concerns such as a decrease in prostate cancer and cardiovascular mortality, improves blood flow, and reduces stress. With all the major benefits associated with having a well-balanced sex life, any drug which inhibits sexual desire can be said to cause more harm than good. Understanding the interactions between drugs and neurotransmitters on …show more content…
(Conaglen, 2013) The first main barrier to pass in this relationship between prescription drugs and sexual function is the obvious taboo in even talking about sex. Many patients whom are prescribed drugs for other health issues feel uncomfortable disclosing these issues openly with clinicians who are willing to ask. Moreover, some patients may not be aware of their sexual problems as a result of their treatment and therefore do not seek out help. It has also been found that patients who have attributed their sexual difficulties to their drugs are much less likely to continue the treatment. To make up for these barriers, clinicians should incorporate sexual issues into the initial consultation with a patient before considering treatment. (Conaglen, …show more content…
In an independent review conducted by Mr. and Mrs. Conaglen, a total of 65 drugs were found to be associated with sexual dysfunction in areas such as desire, arousal, and orgasm. Thirty of these drugs found were of the antidepressant class alone and utilize selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors which inhibit desire causing erectile dysfunction and decreased vaginal lubrication. Impairment of orgasm was also observed in 5-71% of patients who have been prescribed antidepressants making it a common cause of orgasmic or ejaculatory difficulty. (Conaglen, 2013) Majority of antipsychotics have been linked to sexual dysfunction as a result of dopamine receptor blockage and increased prolactin levels. Not only is dopamine the neurotransmitter primarily responsible for pleasure, therefore blocking it may compromise reaction but high prolactin levels also decrease libido directly. Male patients taking antipsychotics report erectile dysfunction, delayed and decreased quality of orgasm, reserved or retrograde ejaculation, and overall weakened interest in performing sexual activities. In addition, female patients reported experiencing a decrease in desire, difficulty reaching orgasm, changes in quality of orgasm and anorgasmia; continued failure to achieve orgasm despite responding to sexual stimulation. (Conaglen,
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