The Impact of Medications on Libido

Certain medications can significantly lower sex drive, an issue that is often overlooked in discussions about medication side effects. Antidepressants, particularly SSRIs and SNRIs like Prozac and Zoloft, can dampen sexual desire due to their impact on serotonin levels in the brain, leading to reports of decreased libido and difficulty achieving orgasm among 70% of users. Hormonal contraceptives, while effective for pregnancy prevention, can also contribute to reduced sexual desire by lowering testosterone levels in women, an important hormone for maintaining healthy libido. Additionally, medications for high blood pressure, such as beta blockers, can impair blood flow, making arousal more difficult, further complicating sexual health.