The doctor has a sexual health warning about using antidepressants

Health experts have issued a warning about the common side effects of antidepressants as NHS data shows a significant rise in the use of the drug. According to NHS Digital, the volume of antidepressants prescribed in the UK has doubled in the past decade, rising from 36 million in 2008 to 70.9 million in 2018.

While antidepressants can be an important part of managing depression, they can have unwanted side effects — including on sexual health, according to experts.

Research shows that drug side effects are common, with between 50% and 70% of people taking a widely used antidepressant experiencing some form of sexual dysfunction. Experts at überlube have highlighted the lesser-known side effects of antidepressant use in an attempt to destigmatise them and let sufferers know they are not alone.

Dr. Michael L. Krychman, chief medical consultant at überlube said that low libido related to antidepressants is an often reported side effect and added, “Vaginal dryness caused by medication is actually quite common.”

Dr. Krychman said making sure to use lube can overcome some of the side effects, including increased libido.

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