Sexual Dysfunction Associated with Escitalopram

Introduction to Sexual Side Effects

• The American Urological Association acknowledges that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), including escitalopram, cause sexual dysfunction through increased serotonergic activity, with a dose-response relationship consistent across all SSRIs 1

Management and Treatment Options

• The National Institute of Mental Health suggests that when sexual dysfunction occurs on escitalopram, considering dose reduction if clinically appropriate, as sexual side effects are dose-dependent, and switching to antidepressants with lower sexual side effect profiles, such as mirtazapine, nefazodone, vortioxetine, or bupropion, may be effective 1