Drugs That Affect Sexual Function

There are number of ways that medications can interfere with sexual function and satisfaction. The following list, while not exhaustive, includes commonly prescribed drugs that have been implicated as affecting sexual functioning:

Note: Tranquilizers (such as Valium and Librium) and alcohol may increase sexual desire among inhibited individuals, but diminish both arousal and orgasm.

• Thiazide diurectic-blockers (propranol, Atenolol, Pindolol)
• Clonidine
• Guanethidine
• Alpha methyldopa
• Prozasin
• Hydralazine
• Reserpine
• Spironolactone

1. Lactation amenorrhea method
2. Condom
3. Spermicide
4. Combined oral or injectable contraceptives
5. Progestin-only oral or injectable contraceptives

1. Can lower estrogen, diminish vaginal lubrication, or diminish libido
2. Can maintain or inhibit erection
3. Can increase vaginal lubrication or discharge
4. Can decrease vaginal lubrication or diminish libido
5. Can increase spotting, irregular bleeding; can diminish sexual contact because of bleeding

• Tricyclic antidepressants
• Imipramine
• Doxepin
• Amitryptyline
• Major tranquilizers (Chlorpromazine, Butyrophenone, Prochlorperazine, Perpheasine, Trifluoperazine, Thioridazine)
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (Pargyline, Phenelzine)

1. Digoxin, Cimetidine
2. Clofibrate, Blofibrate
3. Cancer chemotherapy
4. Acetazolamide
5. Heparin
6. Estrogen
7. Anorectic agents

1. Breast enlargement, occasionally
2. Erectile dysfunction and diminished libido
3. Erectile dysfunction; dyspareunia, ovarian failure (vaginal dryness, diminished libido, “hot flashes”), anorgamia, fatigue
4. Diminished libido, erectile dysfunction
5. Priaprism
6. Decreased vaginal lubrication, diminished libido
7. Erectile dysfunction and changes in libido