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What Causes Low Libido While On Lexapro?

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Posted on Fri, 24 Jun 2016
Question: I have recently, though not regularly, started experiencing an explosive headache either before orgasm or at the about the same time. It's not every time but brutally painful when it occurs. I started taking lexipro about 6 months ago and wonder if there is a connection. My sexual activity has been masturbation, I haven't been sexually active with a partner for several years but would like to resume a healthy sexual relationship in the future. I am 56 years old, peri menopausal, and in good health. The only other med I take is synthroid. Is the Lexipro the problem? I have noticed a reduced ability to climax since I've been taking it but it's the brutal headaches that are concerning.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (26 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Decreased sex drive related to Lexapro.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your question and understand your concerns.

Decreased sex drive is one of the possible side effects of Lexapro use, so, reduced ability to climax could be related to its use.

Most sex related headaches are harmless ones, but, in cases of sex headaches that come on suddenly, conditions such brain aneurysm, artery dissection, stroke should be evaluated further and excluded.

It is necessary to consult with a Neurologist and to discuss your concerns, and about additional tests such brain MRI in order to understand better your condition.

If no brain problems after evaluation, I think you should stop Lexapro in order to have a correct sex life.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Greetings.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Naveen Kumar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (7 minutes later)
Are there other anti depressants I could take that wouldn't disrupt sexual function?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (10 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Other antidepressants listed below.

Detailed Answer:
Welcome back.

First thing to do is do decrease the dose of Lexapro.

If this doesn't work, antidepressants with lower risk for sexual function compromise include bupropion, mirtazapine, nefazodone, and vilazodone.

These are all prescription drugs, so it is necessary to discuss with your treating Doctor about their use.

Hope I helped you.

Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Naveen Kumar
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho

Neurologist, Surgical

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 4502 Questions

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What Causes Low Libido While On Lexapro?

Brief Answer: Decreased sex drive related to Lexapro. Detailed Answer: Hello and thanks for using HCM. I have read your question and understand your concerns. Decreased sex drive is one of the possible side effects of Lexapro use, so, reduced ability to climax could be related to its use. Most sex related headaches are harmless ones, but, in cases of sex headaches that come on suddenly, conditions such brain aneurysm, artery dissection, stroke should be evaluated further and excluded. It is necessary to consult with a Neurologist and to discuss your concerns, and about additional tests such brain MRI in order to understand better your condition. If no brain problems after evaluation, I think you should stop Lexapro in order to have a correct sex life. Hope you found the answer helpful. Let me know if I can assist you further. Greetings.