Real-world patient experience with sexual dysfunction and antidepressant use in patients with self-reported depression: A cross-sectional survey study

Background

Sexual dysfunction negatively impacts quality of life and relationship satisfaction in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). This study’s objective was to understand real-world experiences with sexual dysfunction in patients with MDD.

Methods

This survey study included 483 participants (≥18 years old) from the PatientsLikeMe® network who reported an MDD diagnosis. Sexual dysfunction (self-attributed and as evaluated by the Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire [CSFQ-14]), relationship satisfaction, depression severity, and medication adherence were assessed.

Results

Of the patients currently taking antidepressants (N = 405), sexual dysfunction was reported in approximately half (self-attributed, 52 % and per CSFQ-14, 56 %). Forty-eight percent of these patients indicated they would continue medication until sexual side effects abated. Fewer than half of patients with self-attributed sexual dysfunction, reported for at least one antidepressant, had spoken with their doctor about sexual side effects; of these, about one-third were switched to another antidepressant. Sexual dysfunction was associated with depression severity, diminished relationship satisfaction, and lower self-esteem in patients currently taking antidepressants.

Limitations

This is a convenience sample; data are based on self-report without independent verification of the diagnoses. The cross-sectional design also limits conclusions about causality and directionality. The generalizability of the findings is limited, as the patient sample was predominantly female, white, college educated, and moderately to severely depressed.

Conclusions

New strategies for managing sexual dysfunction in patients with MDD who are taking antidepressants are critically needed to provide these patients with the best chance for successful treatment outcomes.