GP has prescribed Sertraline but frightened of libido side effects

[Kidalondon]

I’m a 52 year old male with general anxiety and low self esteem. Things are getting on top of me and my GP has prescribed me Setraline (50mg). I’ll be honest, I’m very wary of taking it. I’ve read about some of the side effects, weight gain and worse still, no libido or inability to enjoy sex and it’s just increasing my anxiety. In The Times today there was an article written about people who are on SSRI’s and whilst it’s helped them, it’s ruined their interest in sex and relationships. I know everyone is different and we all react differently to drugs but what’s your experience taking Setraline as far as side effects go.

[WilliamG]

Hi Kidalondon,

I took it many years ago. I remember liking the effects on my mental health, but I put on a lot of weight. As I re, it didn’t impact my interest in sex, but it definitely affected my abilities, which was also frustrating. In the end, I didn’t feel the side effects were worth is, so the doctor and I pulled me off of it. I’ve heard that not all people have those side effects, and now there might even be other medications that help mitigate the side effects. Best of luck on your journey!

[tiblo]

I have been on them I never noticed any side effects but you are right about the sex side I have been on different tablets for 16 years with my anxiety and mine just went on all of them I am a woman I don't really know if it happens to men tho I haven't had a sex life for yrs men can take Viagra but what is there for women it's not right any body knows a answer to this please let me know thank you

[bethelbee in reply to tiblo]

I just googled it and there is are 2 FDA approved drugs for women, one is Addyi, originally developed as an antidepressant, that treats low sexual desire in premenopausal women. That one is a daily pill. The other is an injectable called Vyleesi that is used prior to sex but can only be used up to 8x/month. The article says both come with potential bad side effects. The article was written by The Mayo Clinic.

[tiblo]

Thank you so much for that take care

[Kinlay]

This article may help calm your mind. Sertaline (Zoloft) is far less likely to cause these symptoms than other meds, according to this, only 2 to 8 percent of men taking it have issues. forhims.com/blog/zoloft-ere....

[Kidalondon in reply to Kinlay]

thank you. That’s reassuring to know

[Tealpillow]

I take a high dose of sertraline (175mg) and I haven’t noticed a change to my libido. It was already low because of depression so that may be why. Where I live it is legal to smoke marijuana which is a libido booster. Sometimes I’ll take some to help me get in the mood. There are always options. Hang in there - I understand how difficult managing medications can be.