Medically reviewed by Alan Lucks | MD, Alan Lucks MDPC Private Practice - New York on February 4th, 2026.
Lexapro may cause sexual dysfunction in up to 30% of users
Sexual side effects may persist even after stopping medication
Not all antidepressants impact sexual function equally
Consulting a healthcare provider can help manage potential side effects
Depression impacts millions of people, and medications like Lexapro offer critical support for mental health. However, understanding potential sexual side effects is important for patients considering or currently taking antidepressants. Erectile dysfunction is a common concern for men using selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Lexapro.
Sexual health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, and medication should not compromise your quality of life. While Lexapro can be an effective treatment for depression and anxiety, it's crucial to understand how it might impact your sexual function.
Lexapro, a commonly prescribed antidepressant, can cause sexual side effects in some patients. Sexual dysfunction impacts between 25% to 73% of SSRI users, with symptoms potentially including:
Reduced sexual desire
Difficulty achieving or maintaining erections
Delayed or absent orgasm
Decreased genital sensitivity
The mechanism behind these side effects relates to how SSRIs interact with serotonin levels in the brain. By increasing serotonin, these medications can inadvertently impact other neurochemical processes that regulate sexual response.
Research indicates that approximately 30% of Lexapro users may experience some form of sexual dysfunction. Understanding medication interactions can help patients make informed decisions about their treatment.
The likelihood of experiencing sexual side effects can depend on several factors:
Dosage of medication
Individual body chemistry
Duration of treatment
Concurrent health conditions
If you're experiencing sexual dysfunction while taking Lexapro, several strategies can help:
Open communication with your healthcare provider is crucial. They might:
Adjust medication dosage
Switch to a different antidepressant
Recommend complementary treatments
Some approaches to managing sexual side effects include:
Timing medication intake to minimize sexual impact
Exploring alternative antidepressants with fewer sexual side effects
Antidepressant |
Sexual Dysfunction Risk |
Common Sexual Side Effects |
|---|---|---|
Lexapro |
Moderate |
Erectile dysfunction, reduced libido |
Prozac |
Low to Moderate |
Delayed orgasm, decreased arousal |
Zoloft |
Low |
Mild sexual function changes |
Paxil |
High |
Significant erectile dysfunction |
Most sexual side effects are temporary and resolve after adjusting medication or treatment.
Side effects can vary but often improve within a few weeks to months of starting treatment.
Wellbutrin and some newer antidepressants may have fewer sexual dysfunction risks.
Never stop medication without consulting your healthcare provider first.
Exercise, stress reduction, and healthy lifestyle choices can potentially mitigate some sexual side effects.
Sexual health is an important consideration when managing depression. While Lexapro can cause sexual side effects, many patients find successful strategies to maintain both mental and sexual wellness.
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Depression impacts millions of people, and medications like Lexapro offer critical support for mental health. However, understanding potential sexual side effects is [...]
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