Sexual side effects can hit anyone taking a medication, and they’re often more common than people expect. Loss of desire, trouble getting or keeping an erection, delayed orgasm, or painful sex are all possible. The good news: many causes can be identified and treated. Here’s straight talk on what causes these problems and practical steps you can take right now.
Medications are a major trigger. Antidepressants — especially SSRIs like sertraline or paroxetine — often lower libido and delay orgasm. Blood pressure medicines (beta-blockers, some diuretics) and certain antipsychotics can reduce sexual drive or performance. Statins such as simvastatin have been linked to sexual complaints in some people. Long-term opioid use, some antihistamines, and chemotherapy are also known culprits. Beyond drugs, hormonal issues (low testosterone or thyroid problems), chronic illness, heavy alcohol or drug use, stress, and relationship problems can all play a role.
Age and overall health matter too. What looks like a drug side effect might actually be poor circulation, diabetes, or untreated depression. That’s why a quick check with a clinician helps pinpoint the real cause.
Start by talking to your prescriber or pharmacist. Don’t stop a medication on your own — some drugs need slow tapering. Ask if a dose change, switching to a different drug, or adding a medication may help. For example, doctors sometimes switch from an SSRI to an antidepressant with lower sexual side effects or add treatments like bupropion or hormonal therapy depending on the problem. Men may be offered PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil) when appropriate; women might be helped by hormonal or nonhormonal options. Your provider will weigh benefits and risks.
Try lifestyle moves that actually help: regular exercise, cutting back alcohol, quitting smoking, better sleep, and managing stress. Kegel exercises can improve pelvic tone and help both men and women. If anxiety or relationship issues are involved, short-term counseling or sex therapy can make a big difference.
Know when to seek urgent care: a painful, prolonged erection (priapism) lasting more than four hours needs immediate medical attention. Also get checked sooner if sexual changes are sudden, severe, or tied to new medications.
If you want a second opinion or more info about a particular drug, talk to a pharmacist or use trusted medical resources. Fixing sexual side effects usually takes a few adjustments, but many people find relief once the real cause is identified and treated. Don’t suffer in silence — a quick chat with a clinician can get you back to normal sooner.
