Sexual dysfunction in depressed patients undergoing treatment with antidepressants.

INTRODUCTION To determine the incidence of treatment-induced sexual dysfunction in depressed outpatients treated with five different antidepressants. METHODS 100 depressed patients (ICD-10 criteria for depressive episode, recurrent depressive disorder, and dysthymia) with an active sex life were assessed by the MADS, the CGI, and the Sexual Function Questionnaire at baseline and at 1, 2, and 4 months. RESULTS Although the sample showed a slight improvement, generally, in sexual functioning after 4 months treatment, there were several cases of deterioration. CONCLUSIONS Greatest interefernce with sexual functioning occurs with paroxetine, venlafaxine, and clomipramine.