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.

Antihypertensive drugs (drugs used to treat high blood pressure)

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

Psychoactive agents (drugs used to treat depression, anxiety, insomnia, and other psychological conditions)

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

Other drugs

• Digoxin
• Cimetidine
• Clofibrate
• Blofibrate
• Drugs used in cancer chemotherapy
• Acetazolamide
• Heparin
• Estrogen
• Anorectic agents

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