Paxil (Paroxetine) Sexual Side Effects: What They Are & How to Manage Them

What Is Paxil (Paroxetine) & How Is it Used?

Paxil (paroxetine)  is an antidepressant for treating major depressive disorders, generalized anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorders. The medication is sold under the brand name Paxil. It is FDA-approved and belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) drug class. SSRIs work by inhibiting serotonin reuptake, creating a balance of the neurotransmitter. This results in improved moods and symptoms.

A doctor prescribes this medication when you show symptoms of major depressive disorders and generalized anxiety, among other mental disorders. The medication is prescribed to children above eight years and adults. It is taken as one daily dose in the morning, either in tablet form, suspension (liquid), or extended-release (tablets). The delivery of the medication depends on the patient’s age, health condition, or severity of the symptoms ¹. The medication is commonly used as a medication for anxiety and medication for depression.

Paxil is also used as a non-FDA-approved treatment for premature ejaculation and irritable bowel syndrome. An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.

What Causes Paxil Sexual Side Effects?

Paxil, as an antidepressant of the SSRI class, works by increasing the level of serotonin in the brain and body. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps in regulating moods and emotional well-being. The increase of serotonin in the body may affect sexual functioning, such as decreased libido. Paroxetine side effects sexually affecting men and women are not permanent and may improve after a few weeks.

Does Paxil Have Sexual Side Effects?

Paxil, like any other drug, may have side effects on the body. The standard Paxil dose is 20mg, which may vary depending on the condition. Paroxetine is also known to cause some sexual side effects to users. Sometimes, discussing sexual health with a doctor might feel difficult and could feel embarrassing; however, it is advisable to speak to a doctor whenever you experience these side effects.

Some paxil side effects that may affect men and women include low libido and delayed orgasms, which may have a negative effect on your sexual functioning. Sexual side effects are not as common as the other side effects of Paxil and affect both genders.

Sexual Side Effects of Paxil in Women

For women suffering from major depressive disorders, anxiety, and any form of mental disorder, their sexual functioning is sometimes affected, and they may experience a low desire for sex. Paroxetine is also known to cause sexual side effects in women for a few weeks, which may impact relationships negatively. They might experience low libido due to Paxil use.

Common Paxil sexual side effects in women include²:

• Reduced sexual desire
• Urinary difficulties
• Delayed orgasm

Sexual Side Effects of Paxil in Men

Reduced desire for sex and erectile dysfunction are some common unwanted sexual side effects when taking Paxil. Although these side effects may go away after a few weeks, talking to a doctor may be helpful for managing these side effects.

Common negative Paxil sexual side effects in men include²:

• Decreased libido
• Erectile dysfunction
• Delayed ejaculation
• Urinary difficulties

Can Paxil Be Used for Premature Ejaculation?

A licensed prescriber may prescribe this medication as a non-FDA-approved treatment for premature ejaculation³. While more research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of this treatment, Paxil is one of several SSRI medications used to treat this condition. Research suggests that the medication may delay ejaculation for some men who take the medication.⁴

How to Cope With Sexual Side Effects of Paxil

Healthcare providers can recommend ways to manage or reduce the impact of sexual side effects. Only a licensed prescriber can adjust your prescription.

Adjust Your Dose

A healthcare provider may adjust your dose and recommend medication schedule changes to reduce sexual side effects. The healthcare provider will also advise you to monitor your symptoms of major depressive disorder once they make these changes ⁵. Dose adjustments can only be made under the guidance of your prescriber to avoid antidepressant withdrawal symptoms or other complications.

Consider Switching Antidepressants

Although Paxil is safe to use over a long period, if your sexual functioning does not improve, the healthcare provider may recommend switching medication to see if the symptoms may improve. To avoid complications with switching antidepressants, a doctor should make this change as they fully understand each medication and its side effects.

Consider Therapy

Therapy helps get to the root cause of some mental disorders. This is because people get to open up and discuss issues that are affecting them. Therapy is a frontline treatment for mental issues because of its fewer side effects. Psychotherapy may be beneficial in managing anxiety or depression and sexual side effects and may be paired with reduced dosage.

Finding the Right Therapist

Before you start your search for a therapist, it is helpful to understand what you fully need. Knowing your goals will help you find the right therapist for your needs. You may find a therapist to fit your needs in your local area, or you may benefit from exploring online therapy options. Both therapy options can be helpful, and understanding your needs for convenience, cost, and scheduling issues can help you make the decision.

Talk to Your Partner

If you are experiencing sexual side effects caused by medication, talking to your partner would be one of the ways to cope with these side effects. When your partner understands what you are going through, they will support you, and you can work together to find options to support your relationship.

Natural Remedies for Anxiety

Eating healthy, nourishing meals, getting adequate sleep, and exercising improves physical and mental health. These natural remedies for anxiety help treat mild symptoms of mental health disorders.

Questions to Ask Your Health Team

Side effects caused by my medication are common. Paxil-related sexual side effects may go away after some time, but some may persist over time. It is, however, helpful to fully understand the sexual side effects of the medication by asking your doctor or your therapist questions about the drug and what to expect once they share the prescription. If you experience adverse effects or reactions, please contact your healthcare immediately or call 911.

Questions to ask your care team about the paroxetine sexual side effects. Questions include:

• How long will it take for me to adjust to taking Paxil?
• Am I at risk for more severe symptoms if I am already taking other anxiety /depression medications?
• What is the best dosage to get fewer side effects?
• When should I reach out to you if I am experiencing sexual side effects?
• Is there anything I should tell my therapist about this new medication?
• What are the sexual side effects of Paxil?
• Does Paxil cause erectile dysfunction?
• Does Paxil affect libido?
• Does Paxil decrease libido?
• Can I adjust the dose myself?
• Does Paxil help with erectile dysfunction?
• Can I take Paxil alongside any other medication?
• What will happen in case I forget to take my morning dose?
• Is there a Paxil increased libido effect on women?

In My Experience

In my experience, some people experience side effects such as nausea, headache, and in some cases, sexual side effects when taking Paxil. Dose adjustments, therapy, and natural remedies, and talking to your partner or therapist, are ways to manage these sexual side effects. You may not experience sexual side effects from this medication, but knowing what you might expect can be helpful.