Simple self-examination to prevent infertility is so simple

Long-term or excessive use of antidepressants, antihypertensive drugs, hormone drugs, etc. may lead to loss of sexual desire or lack of sexual desire. Common drugs that affect sexual desire mainly include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, beta-blockers, anti-androgens, sedative-hypnotics, anti-epileptic drugs, etc. If sexual dysfunction occurs, it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly and adjust the medication regimen.

1. Antidepressants

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors such as paroxetine hydrochloride tablets and citalopram hydrobromide tablets may inhibit sexual desire by regulating neurotransmitters. These drugs are commonly used to treat depression and anxiety, but some patients may develop sexual dysfunction after taking the drugs, manifested as decreased sexual desire or delayed orgasm. During the medication period, regular follow-up visits are required to evaluate the side effects of the medication.

2. Antihypertensive drugs

Beta-blockers such as metoprolol tartrate and propranolol hydrochloride may affect penile blood flow and testosterone levels. These drugs lower blood pressure by blocking adrenergic receptors, but may indirectly cause erectile dysfunction and decreased libido. If patients with high blood pressure have obvious sexual function problems, they can replace angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and other drugs that have less impact on sexual function under the guidance of a doctor.

3. Hormone drugs

Antiandrogens such as cyproterone acetate and flutamide will directly reduce testosterone levels. These drugs are commonly used to treat prostate cancer and precocious puberty, but can significantly suppress male sexual desire and erectile function. Long-term use of corticosteroids such as prednisone acetate may also cause decreased sexual desire by affecting the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.

4. Sedative drugs

Benzodiazepines such as diazepam and estazolam relieve anxiety through central nervous system depression, but may excessively suppress sexual excitement. Long-term use of high doses of these drugs can not only cause a decrease in sexual desire, but may also cause drowsiness and cognitive decline. Patients with insomnia should prioritize non-pharmacological interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy.

5. Anti-epileptic drugs

Drugs such as sodium valproate sustained-release tablets and carbamazepine tablets may interfere with sex hormone metabolism. Epilepsy patients who take these drugs for a long time may suffer from endocrine problems such as loss of sexual desire and menstrual disorders. Some antipsychotics such as risperidone tablets can also affect sexual function through dopamine receptor antagonism.

The loss of sexual desire caused by drugs is usually reversible, and most can gradually recover after adjusting the medication regimen. You should avoid taking hormone supplements on your own daily. Maintaining regular exercise and a balanced diet can help maintain sex hormone levels. If sexual dysfunction occurs during medication, you should promptly communicate with the attending physician, and do not stop or change medications without authorization. For patients who must take drugs that affect sexual desire for a long time, psychological pressure can be relieved through psychological counseling and communication with their partners.