Experiencing Speedy Ejaculation and Weak Erections After Starting Sertraline (35M)
**Profile:** 35 years old, height 1.73 m, weight 68 kg, White, residing in Peru. **Primary Concern:** Since initiating **Sertraline at 200 mg daily** approximately one month ago for my health anxiety and OCD, I have encountered issues with speedy ejaculation and weakened erections. Previously, my medication regimen included: * **Paroxetine** for over a year: significantly helped prolong orgasm. * **Clomipramine** for about 1 to 2 months: further extended ejaculation time. * **Prior to medication:** I dealt with mild premature ejaculation that was under control. Currently, I find that during masturbation, I ejaculate much quicker, and my erections are less firm; they tend to diminish if I lose concentration. **Current Medication List:** * **Sertraline 200 mg/day** * **Risperidone** (administered in low dosage, specifically five drops twice a day) **Health Background:** * Diagnosed with **chronic non-bacterial prostatitis** several years ago, which is manageable. * No other existing medical issues known to me. **Additional Information:** * I do not smoke. * I do not consume alcohol. * I am not involved with recreational drugs. **Inquiries:** Is it typical for Sertraline to cause issues with ejaculatory control contrary to the expected delay in ejaculation seen with other medications? Might this be a temporary adverse effect that could resolve over time, or should I be thinking about modifying my medication plan, particularly given the recent changes? Thank you for your assistance!
Answers (1)
3/21/2025, 10:50:42 AM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your experience. It's understandable to be concerned about changes in sexual performance after starting a new medication, especially given your history of using other treatments that had different effects.
Summary of Key Points:
- Sertraline, while often used to delay ejaculation, can lead to issues like speedy ejaculation and weak erections in some individuals.
- These side effects may be temporary, but monitoring them is essential.
Explanation: Sertraline, a commonly prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), can sometimes cause sexual side effects, including changes in ejaculation and erection quality. Though many SSRIs are known to delay ejaculation, individual responses can vary significantly. It's also possible that the combination of medications can amplify these issues.
Your previous experience with Paroxetine and Clomipramine, which helped with premature ejaculation, contrasts with what you're experiencing now, and that change can be frustrating. Likewise, chronic prostatitis may also contribute to sexual dysfunction, and anxiety surrounding these changes can exacerbate the problem.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your experiences with ejaculation and erections. Note any patterns, triggers, or changes over the next few weeks. This might help pinpoint specific influences.
-
Lifestyle Considerations: Maintain healthy habits to support sexual function:
- Engage in regular physical activity to improve blood flow and reduce anxiety.
- Practice relaxation techniques (like mindfulness or deep breathing) to help manage any anxiety tied to your symptoms.
-
Evaluate Medication: After monitoring for a few weeks, if the issues persist, consider discussing with a healthcare provider about:
- The possibility of lowering the dose of Sertraline or switching to an alternative medication that aligns with your needs.
- Adding supportive treatments that might counteract sexual side effects.
-
Communicate Openly: If you're in a relationship, open discussions with your partner about what's happening can help reduce pressure and anxiety.
Remember, many find that sexual side effects from medications are often temporary or can be managed with adjustments. It's important to feel comfortable with your treatment plan, so don't hesitate to pursue adjustments if needed. You are not alone in this, and there are strategies to help you navigate these challenges.
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