Or is it just from the depression side effect...
I know my doctor warned me about the depression that may start after I had to increase my dosage to 20mg a day. She did not however warn me about any other side effects and I think I am losing my sex drive, either as a direct side effect or it is the depression that is causing it. Is anyone else noticing this?
Depression - Does Prednisone effect your sex drive?
Question posted by SummerShine on 19 June 2014
Last updated on 24 September 2019 by Lee Sharpe
3 Answers
Lee Sharpe
24 Sep 2019
I must be the exception to the rule on Prednisone... Since I began taking it for swelling and pain in my legs, ankles, and feet, I have had an increased libido, elevated mood, as well as being able to eat constantly without gaining weight. Everything I have read says that I should have the opposite effects. Any thoughts from others???
Mick bruce
14 Jan 2019
Yes Prednisone will effect your sex drive because it shuts down your ability to produce and balance your natural hormones.
Prednisone converts to a stres steroid hormone which is canabolistic in nature so it breaks down everything it can and converts it to sugars for energy, it also raises insulin which will cause weight gain when combined to reducing hormones like testosterone. As a side effect it shuts down the immune system and reduces inflimation which is the reason doctors prescribe it but in doing so it will cause ofal side effects to the patient involved.
It's a very dangerous drug which is over prescribe and if possible people should refuse to take it and look for a better option which are available but are more expensive and this is another reason for the over use of this toxic drug.
All drugs have side effects but any drug that alter your hormones in any way should be avoided at all costs unless absolutely necessary these include antidepressants and so on, you'll find that the majority of side effects from drugs are due to the effects of these drugs on the hormone system which then cause even more complications.
I hope this is of some help, kind regards Mick.
WildcatVet
19 June 2014
Hi, Summer! Although fairly rare, prednisone can cause decreased libido in a few patients ~ and occasionally increased libido.
You'll need to talk to your doctor about this and possibly lower your dosage or change your medication regimen. It might be possible if you're being treated for Reynaud's phenomenon, but if your symptoms are secondary to an underlying autoimmune disorder management is going to be more complicated.
I wish you my beast, WCV
WildcatVet
19 June 2014
No, no, not my beast! Best, I wish you my best!
SummerShine
19 June 2014
Thank you! I am going to be off of it in a few weeks, so hopefully everything will go back to normal.
Related topics
depression, autoimmune disorders, prednisone, side effect, dosage, raynaud's syndrome, doctor, sex, sex drive
Further information
- Prednisone uses and safety info
- Prednisone prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Prednisone (detailed)
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