Question:
Ladies... Sexual Side Effects of Prozac

I've been on prozac long-term, for depression. The prozac works great on my depression, and it's been in total remission for a very long time. However, now that I'm down 125 pounds post-op, I'm starting to think that I'd like to ask my doctor about a different anti-depressant. Prozac really kills my libido, and now that I look better, I think I'd like to get my sex life back! Has anyone had these types of problems with Prozac and then found an anti-depressant that doesn't have sexual side-effects?    — Kathy J. (posted on July 15, 2003)

July 15, 2003
I was on prozac when it first came out and was bothered by the sexual side effects. I didn't even like being touched! My doctor thought it was related to the depression not the meds, but when I changed meds the side effect changed in a few weeks. Now of course it's in the literature. I've taken Effexor for a few years with good results, but I had to try a few meds before I found one that worked for me. It was worth it though to feel like a 'whole woman' again. Good luck in your efforts and congratulations of the weight loss. Laura
   — Laura K.

July 15, 2003
I was on celexa for a long time (1 Year) and had the same problem. My PCP switched me to Wellbutrim and life is good again lol.
   — Barbara J.

July 15, 2003
Kathy Jo, Prozac killed my sex drive also. I found that I did much better on Wellbutrin. Hope it helps you.
   — Ann B.

July 15, 2003
My Dr changed me to Fluoxetine for the same reason you cite. Works like a charm!
   — Nannette

July 15, 2003
Fluoxetine IS Prozac, the generic. Yes, this is a major drawback to taking this antidepressant. Unfortunately for me, I've tried many antidepressants which haven't helped my depression nearly as much as the Prozac, so I just have to deal with this side effect.
   — cjabates

July 16, 2003
I'm not a lady, but most SSRI's affect libido. I was told by a fertility doctor my wife and I were seeing that Wellbutrin has the fewest sexual side effects of the modern SSRI's.
   — Cosmo K.

July 16, 2003
Hello Kathy Jo. I have been on Prozac for 7 years. I talked to my Dr. about it and she deceided that I was not depressed but had bad anxiety. I am scheduled for surgery in about 8 weeks. So she put me on Paxil CR just 12.5 the first week. I cannot tell you how much better I feel. Just kind of a calm relaxing feeling. So maybe it's time to try another medication. The Pharmacist said Paxil was in the same family and I had an easy transition. Good Luck Rhonda
   — annasgranma

July 16, 2003
I was on Paxil for a while and it totally killed my sex drive. I changed to Effexor and had absolutely no problems with my sex drive. Loved it! Good luck!
   — [Deactivated Member]