SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION IN MALE-SCHIZOPHRENIC PATIENTS

Background: Neuroleptic treatment in schizophrenic patients is associa ted with sexual dysfunction. However, it is not clear to what extent t he psychiatric disorder and/or the pharmacologic treatment are respons ible for the sexual impairment. The aim of the present study was to ev aluate the sexual function of untreated and treated male schizophrenic patients in comparison with healthy subjects. Method: Participants in cluded 122 male subjects: 20 drug-free schizophrenic patients, 51 neur oleptic-treated (depot form) schizophrenic patients, and 51 normal con trols. A detailed structured interview was used to quantitatively and qualitatively assess sexual function. Results: A high frequency of sex ual dysfunction was reported by both schizophrenic groups of patients. Impairments in arousal items (erection) and orgasm during sex were re ported mainly by the treated patients. Desire parameters were reduced in both schizophrenic groups, but reduction in the frequency of sexual thoughts was confined to the untreated one. The schizophrenic patient s were more involved in masturbatory activity in comparison with the c ontrol subjects. Treated patients disclosed dissatisfaction with their sexual function. Conclusion: Untreated schizophrenic patients exhibit decreased sexual desire. Neuroleptic treatment is associated with res toration of sexual desire yet it entails erectile, orgasmic, and sexua l satisfaction problems. Clinicians' awareness and open discussion of sexual problems with patients may improve comprehension and compliance .