Does Lexapro increase sex drive?
Question posted by Megmackay on 21 June 2022
Last updated on 11 August 2022 by Slitherz
3 Answers
No it doesnt. The opposite of that actually. Hope this helps!
Hi, Meg!
Reported side effects tend to be more on the negative side as a rule, but if the medication gives you a happier, more satisfying life by easing depression and/or anxiety it makes sense that interest in sex would be increased too.
When I was on Lexapro 20mgs. for 1 year, the sexual side effects were very pronounced. I know everyone reacts differently to medications, in this case a SSRIs antidepressant, Lexapro (escitalopram).
I am not trying to put Meg down with this comment, just being realistic. Yes, I was a happier person with no sex life, perhaps Meg will react differently hopefully.
"In addition to reducing interest in sex, SSRI medications can make it difficult to become aroused, sustain arousal, and reach orgasm. Some people taking SSRIs aren't able to have an orgasm at all. These symptoms tend to become more common with age."
Source: Harvard Health
Harvard Medical School
@ Meg, for the link of side effects scroll down to where it says Genitourinary ,
Genitourinary
Very common (10% or more): Ejaculation disorder (up to 14%)
Common (1% to 10%): Anorgasmia, decreased libido, ejaculation failure, impotence, menstrual disorder, vaginal bleeding
Uncommon (0.1% to 1%): Amenorrhea, atrophic vaginitis, breast pain, cystitis, delayed ejaculation, dysmenorrhea, dysuria, genital infection, genital moniliasis, intermenstrual bleeding, loss of libido, menopausal symptoms, menorrhagia, menstrual cramps, metrorrhagia, micturition disorder, micturition frequency, nocturia, polyuria, postmenopausal bleeding, premenstrual tension, prostatic disorder, sexual function abnormality, unintended pregnancy, urinary frequency, urinary incontinence, urinary retention, urinary tract infection, uterine fibroid, vaginal candidiasis, vaginal hemorrhage, vaginitis
Frequency not reported: Galactorrhea, priapism
Source: Drugs.com
Related topics
Further information
- Lexapro uses and safety info
- Lexapro prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Lexapro (detailed)
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