Does anyone have tips or success stories for managing ED while on SSRIs?
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I was on low dose Lexapro in my mid-20s (I’m 34 now). I complained to my doctor about the ED for the first time after 2 years on the pill, and he said “Wait, you don’t have a prescription for Viagra? Let’s fix that.” It was that easy. One tiny dose of Viagra or Cialis, which I later learned that I prefer, fixed the problem.
Note: he was not the same dr who prescribed the Lexapro, so he wasn’t dropping the ball by not prescribing the ED med or asking about ED earlier. My psychiatrist dropped that ball.
Anyway, I was celibate through my mid-20s because of this and the accompanying anxiety…and I didn’t have to be. Go ask your dr about help with the ED. It’s totally routine.
I went off them completely. In my case I was able to manage the problem at hand with Wellbutrin. At the same time of coming off SSRIs i also stopped my nightly cannabis use after 6-7 years straight. Slowly building back my natural dopamine and serotonin receptors.
I do want to stress the decision to come off SSRIs and transition to a different medication was one made with my Doctor after having been honest about the affects on my sexual function, enjoyment etc.
Have that open conversation with your doctor. It’s a very real side affect and other medications may be suitable.
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echoing what plum said because i’ve been on a similar path.
about a year ago, i spoke with my doctor, and we decided to stop the SSRIs (Prozac). i was still dealing with depression and hesitant to go back on SSRIs, so about a month and a half ago, i started on Wellbutrin. i’ve noticed some changes, but i’m giving it more time to see how it goes.
same goes for cutting back on cannabis. It was more about being frugal—i don’t plan on quitting forever. it helped me relax, but i didn’t wanna start to rely on it for intimacy every time, so it was a good move—timing wise. plus, i’ve only had a few sexual experiences while high, mostly recently, so it wasn’t a huge worry for me.
talk to your doctor about the side effects you’re having, be open, and see what options might work for you. you don’t have to make a decision on the spot. they can suggest which meds might suit you, and then you can do your own research too.
I’ve tried Cialis via the online ED med sites. My doctor wrote me a script for 10mg daily and I start it Monday. I had success with trying it before. I’m ready for what it’ll be like taking it daily.