A switch to bupropion might reverse sexual dysfunction
PEOPLE'S PHARMACY
I have been taking Prozac for five years. I've definitely noticed a downturn in my ability to achieve a climax. My doctor switched me to Celexa to see if it would offer an improvement. It hasn't worked, although both drugs have been very helpful with my depression. Are there any antidepressants that don't cause this side effect?
When Prozac-like drugs were introduced, no one knew how common sexual side effects might be. Pre-market testing suggested such complications were relatively rare (2% to 16%). Now we know they may affect 30% to 70% of patients.
Many people report that drugs such as Celexa, Effexor, Lexapro, Paxil, Prozac and Zoloft can reduce libido, interfere with arousal, delay or block orgasm and cause erectile dysfunction. Some describe a numbness or lack of sensation as "genital anesthesia." If they do achieve orgasm, they experience little or no pleasure in the act.
There are no obvious antidotes for this problem, though some doctors have tried drugs such as Viagra. An antidepressant such as bupropion is less likely to cause sexual dysfunction. Discuss your situation with your doctor.
My endocrinologist said my vitamin D level is low and told me to take 2,000 IU daily. I have done that and find that my arthritis pain has disappeared. Is there a connection?
It's possible. There is growing awareness that vitamin D deficiency can contribute to joint and muscle pain.
Reach Joe Graedon, a pharmacologist, and Teresa Graedon, an expert in medical anthropology and nutrition, at www.peoplespharmacy.com or in care of this newspaper.
