The role of serotonin in sexual dysfunction: fluoxetine-associated orgasm dysfunction

J Clin Psychiatry. 1991 Feb;52(2):66-8.

Abstract

Iatrogenic sexual dysfunction has been associated with many pharmacologic agents. The authors report 6 cases of orgasm dysfunction associated with the use of fluorxetine in 77 depressed outpatients. Fluoxetine is a novel antidepressant known to block the reuptake of serotonin with little effect on other neurotransmitter systems. Because fluoxetine has a specific mechanism of action, it serves as a useful model to hypothesize about potential mechanisms of drug-induced sexual dysfunction. The possible effects of serotonin on central, spinal, and peripheral anatomical areas are discussed in relation to drug-induced sexual dysfunction.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Ambulatory Care
  • Depressive Disorder / drug therapy
  • Female
  • Fluoxetine / adverse effects*
  • Fluoxetine / pharmacology
  • Fluoxetine / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Iatrogenic Disease
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Orgasm / drug effects*
  • Orgasm / physiology
  • Serotonin / physiology*
  • Serotonin Antagonists
  • Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological / chemically induced*
  • Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological / physiopathology

Substances

  • Serotonin Antagonists
  • Fluoxetine
  • Serotonin