An Overview of Xanax Sexual Side Effects
Xanax® (
alprazolam) can cause certain sexual side effects. Xanax sexual side effects may include:
- Changes in sex drive
- Other types of sexual dysfunction.
Xanax and Sex Drive
Xanax can cause changes in a person's sex drive (also known as libido). In studies of Xanax for
panic disorder, up to 14.4 percent of people reported a decreased sex drive, compared to just 8 percent of those not taking Xanax. However, an increased sex drive is also possible, with up to 7.7 percent of people taking Xanax for panic disorder reporting an increased sex drive (compared to just 4.1 percent of those not taking the drug). People taking Xanax for other types of
anxiety (other than panic disorder) seem to be at a lower risk of developing sex drive changes.
Xanax and Sexual Dysfunction
Up to 7.4 percent of people taking Xanax for panic disorder reported problems with sexual function, compared to 3.7 of people not taking the medication. Sexual dysfunction can include
impotence (also known as
erectile dysfunction or
ED) or problems ejaculating or achieving orgasm.
Will I Experience Xanax Sexual Side Effects?
It is impossible for your healthcare provider to know whether you will develop any of these Xanax sexual side effects.
Also, if a person does develop sexual side effects, it is challenging to know whether these problems are caused by other factors or Xanax itself.
If you develop sexual side effects while taking Xanax, make sure to talk with your healthcare provider. There is treatment that he or she may be able to recommend. Depending on how severe your Xanax sexual side effects are, he or she may also recommend that you adjust your
Xanax dosage or try a different anxiety medicine.
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