Hey guys. So back in early 2016, my GP put me on citalopram for depression and anxiety, and much to my delight the medication begun to work a dream. A couple months into them and i was feeling like my old self again. I began to develop side effects, such as drowsiness, but that helped me sleep so I counted it as a plus. The other side effect was actually a welcome addition in that it highly increased my sex drive. It was incredible. And my girlfriend agreed! However, we’re now in 2019 and for the past 6 months I am having the total opposite effect. I have no sexual desire whatsoever. Achieving an election is difficult but not impossible, and ejaculating seems like a thing of the past now. Can’t even remember the last time I reached an orgasm. So a bit of history, I started out on 10mg and this is when the side effects were positive. I was increased to 20mg and things remained the same. In 2017 I was upped to 30mg and my sex drive began to drop, but not enough to be a problem (I just assumed that particular side effect was wearing off). Then I was given 40mg and within a few weeks the problems began. I have spoken to my GP many times about this issue and stressed how it is effecting me and more importantly my relationship. However, despite the fact he agreed the citalopram was the culprit, he is convinced the problem is physiological... I can tell you now it is most definitely not. Instead of lessening the dose, he keeps recommending a sex therapist to talk to. I’ve refused to do so. I know in my heart of hearts in the citalopram and I just want my regular sex drive back. I can still engage in sex with my girlfriend (now fiancé) but it’s far from enjoyable for me. And I end up frustrated and hating myself because I can’t get the relief. I’ve been reading on google and I’m seeing horror stories of this side effect being permanent even after coming off the medication. I hope this isn’t true for everyone. If my GP is refusing to take me off the tablets, what can I do? Any advice?
Why don’t you take only 20 mg without telling your GP ?
Is he increasing the dose because of your depression and anxiety unresolved issues ?
I agree. Take a lesser dosage and find a new doctor who will listen to you. If you don’t want to find a new doctor then take the lower dosage and live your life.