Been taking Effexor XR for one month. I can't ejaculate during sex. Is this a permanent side effect or will it go away over time?
Effexor XR blocked ejaculation?
Question posted by Jjaus on 25 Sep 2021
Last updated on 15 March 2024 by Anonymous
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3 Answers
Inactive
15 March 2024
This question is now 2 and a half years old, so I'm assuming you probably have some more time in with your Effexor\Venlafaxine prescription. I have been taking it since around 2022, and several months ago I increased to 225mg. No matter which antidepressant I take, there is always some level of interaction with sexual function. I have been taking antidepressant medication since I was 15, and I am 41 now. The worst sexual side effects I have experienced were with Paxil. Although I would say that Effexor\Venlafaxine is among the milder of medicines with sexual side effects, I still do sometimes experience issues getting or maintaining an erection. I can say that on the occasions when maintaining an erection is successful, I am able to ejaculate without issues. For me, it comes and goes (no pun intended).
My partner is very understanding, and both of us know that my mental health outweighs being able to ALWAYS perform properly sexually. I would say that if you are able to ejaculate some or most of the time, you're doing well and shouldn't change your medicine. Talk with your partner. Make sure she knows you're attracted to her. Talk about the importance of your mental health. Ask for her input on whether the problem is serious enough to warrant a change, or if it's manageable. Sex is rewarding even without ejaculation, and there are other ways to make sure our partners are satisfied! I hope this helps.
WildcatVet
26 Sep 2021
Hi, Jjaus!
It may be temporary or in some cases become permanent. You'll need to get with your doctor for professional advice and to discuss some options.
A dosage adjustment.
A switch to an antidepressant with less likelihood of this side effect (bupropion, vortioxetine and vilazodone for example).
There are prescription medications that can help; there are even a couple herbals that may have value.
Best regards and I hope you find a good solution.
LousArk
26 Sep 2021
I can only answer from my experience as a woman, for 20yrs on this drug. It made orgasm very difficult, the whole time.
Related topics
effexor, effexor xr, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, venlafaxine, major depressive disorder, side effect, sex, ejaculation
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