Sildenafil Treatment of Antidepressant-Induced Sexual Dysfunction

Sir: The case report by Drs. Ashton and Bennett (January 1999 issue) is a welcome addition to the body of literature regarding the treatment of antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction. One point needs clarification: the authors state that their cases possibly represent the first patients treated with sildenafil for antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction. To date, an open trial 2 and 3 case reports have described the successful use of sildenafil to treat a most unwanted side effect. As the number of reports of the successful use of sildenafil to treat antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction increases, clinicians will have more options for their patients. I agree with the authors that although further studies are needed, the use of sildenafil appears promising in treating antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction. Conclusions and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position or policy of the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, Department of the Army, or the U.S. Army Medical Command.