Can Prozac affect my sex drive? I never feel intimate anymore, and it’s really hurting my relationship — my partner gets so upset thinking I don’t find him/her attractive anymore. I just don’t feel like having sex, ever.
Antidepressants are of many categories one of which is called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Prozac, Zoloft, Celexa, Lexapro, and Paxil. SSRIs are used to treat depression, anxiety, panic disorder, and other conditions, including premenstrual dysphoric disorder. A possible side effect of SSRIs includes decreased sex drive and/or more difficult orgasm — for women and men. Each SSRI may have different effects on different people.
Talk with your health care provider if you feel this medication affecting your sex life. Your provider may be able to substitute a different SSRI or a different kind of medication.
Similarly, share with your partner any concerns you may have about changes in your sex drive — no matter what the reasons may be. It may be difficult to assure partners that one’s feelings are not about them, but it is worth trying — communication is everything. Understandably, partners may find it difficult to accept that their significant other’s appetite for sex has changed, especially if it needs to be for an extended or indefinite period of time.