Paxil Sexual Side Effects

Impotence is usually defined as a total inability to achieve erection, an inconsistent ability to do so, or a tendency to sustain only brief erections. Ultimately, impotence is the repeated inability to get or keep an erection that is firm enough for sexual intercourse. Impotence is also known as erectile dysfunction (or ED for short).

 

In studies, impotence occurred in up to 9 percent of men taking Paxil. It was most common in men with obsessive-compulsive disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder.

 

Priapism has occurred in very few men taking Paxil. Priapism is a painful erection of the penis that does not go away, even after sexual intercourse or masturbation. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent damage to the penis. For this reason, it is very important to seek medical attention immediately if you think you are having symptoms. Even though this may seem embarrassing, it is necessary to avoid permanent damage to the penis. If your healthcare provider is not available, you should seek emergency medical care.

 

Paxil and Sexual Side Effects: Final Thoughts

It is impossible for your healthcare provider to know whether you will develop any sexual side effects with Paxil. Also, if a person does develop such side effects, it is often difficult to know whether these problems are related to the medicine or a result of the condition it is being used to treat. Sexual symptoms are common with a number of conditions that may be treated with Paxil. For example, one-third of people with untreated depression report sexual side effects.

 

If you are taking Paxil and sexual side effects appear, discuss them with your healthcare provider. Whether or not your problems are due to the medicine, your healthcare provider may be able to recommend treatment options. He or she may also recommend that you adjust your Paxil dosage or try another medicine altogether.