More and more problems related to neurotic and depressive conditions in the broad sense of the term are appearing in society. Depression is becoming a disease of civilisation, characteristic of the societies of developing countries. It touches people exposed to constant stress, anxiety, lack of real rest. It can affect any one of us, so it is worthwhile to learn more about the possible consequences of this disease.

Depression - a disease of the 21st century

Depression is a curable disease. Unfortunately, the use of antidepressants has a very strong effect on sexual function. Potency disorder may affect as many as 80% of men treated with drugs from the group of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI).

Antidepressants and potency

During antidepressant treatment, various sexual disorders and dysfunctions, most often erectile dysfunctions, may negatively affect the quality and duration of depression treatment. They also greatly reduce the quality of life of patients and extend the period of convalescence. There are studies that have shown that many patients treated with potency-mediated antidepressants who notice erectile dysfunction interrupt their treatment. Such a step is a huge burden on the not fully healed psyche and can be a prelude to relapses. Additionally, symptoms of dyskontinuation syndrome may appear.

The first reports on the possible association of antidepressants with the occurrence of certain sexual dysfunctions started to appear as early as in the 1960s. Since then, the number of scientific publications on this subject has increased significantly, which is not only a cause for concern among the public, but also an increase in the number of cases where drug therapies are used. Antidepressants are commonly attributed to the effect on many different types of sexual disorders, ranging from reduced desire and vaginal lubrication in women to erectile dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation in men.

However, studies related to the group of people using SSRI drugs are not complete and do not constitute an unambiguous source of certain knowledge. The methodological problems that arise in research often result from cultural conditions that are difficult to include in research statistics.

Antidepressants and their effects on potency are associated with elevated levels of serotonin and prolactin while lowering dopamine levels and alpha-adrenergic and cholinergic receptor blockages. There is also a commonly reduced activity of nitric oxide quotient.

In the treatment of sexual dysfunctions, however, it is important to eliminate other substances that may contribute to the development of disorders. A healthy lifestyle, excluding nicotine, alcohol and weight loss can reduce the possibility of impotence disorder, even when using antidepressants at the same time.