Sexual dysfunction in depressed patients undergoing treatment with antidepressants

INTRODUCTION: To determine the incidence of treatment-induced sexual dysfun ction in depressed outpatients treated with five different antidepressants. METHODS: 100 depressed patients (ICD-IO criteria for depressive episode, re current depressive disorder, and dysthymia) with an active sex life were as sessed by the MADS, the CGI, and the Sexual Function Questionnaire at basel ine and at 1, 2, and 4 months. RESULTS: Although the sample showed a slight improvement, generally, in sex ual functioning after 4 months treatment, there were several cases of deter ioration. CONCLUSIONS: Greatest interference with sexual functioning occurs with paro xetine, venlafaxine, and clomipramine.