Post-SSRI Sexual Dysfunction (PSSD)

Antidepressant treatment with SSRIs and SNRIs can have negative influences on all stages of the sexual response cycle. In some individuals, the impairments in sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction continue long after the medication is stopped, for which the term “Post-SSRI Sexual Dysfunction” (PSSD) is used to describe this disorder. PSSD is unrelated to any pre-existing or reactive mental health issue, medical condition, or substance abuse. PSSD is difficult to diagnose and should be done by analysing the patient’s drug history, the onset of symptoms, and sexual function before starting such a medication. Key symptoms are genital anaesthesia, erectile dysfunction, and pleasureless orgasm. As the pathophysiology of the disorder is unknown, there are no curative treatments available. However, some management approaches are suggested to cope with the impact of the symptoms on sexuality and the quality of life of those bothered by PSSD. Medical recognition of PSSD is critical for obtaining the resources needed to investigate the true prevalence of the disorder, its pathophysiological mechanism(s), and potential treatments.