Doctors Don t Ask Patients Don t Tell Some Surprising Side Effects of Treating Depression
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Health Fitness -> subcategory Depression.
The Impact of Depression Treatment: What Doctors and Patients Aren't Discussing
Understanding Depression and Its Common Side Effects
Each year, up to 14 million adults in the United States face the challenges of major depressive disorder (MDD). While a significant number of these individuals?"10% of women and 4% of men aged 18 and older?"use antidepressants, not everyone is aware that these medications can lead to sexual side effects. This often-overlooked issue can be confusing, as sexual problems may also result from depression itself.
Survey Insights: A Common Yet Unspoken Issue
A survey by International Communications Research, commissioned by GlaxoSmithKline, uncovered that 48% of 1,003 respondents identified sexual problems as a prevalent side effect of antidepressant use. Dr. Adam Keller Ashton, a clinical professor of psychiatry at the State University of New York at Buffalo, explains that these issues can result from either the disorder or its treatments. The survey revealed that a decreased sex drive and difficulties with orgasm were the most reported concerns, affecting 77% and 56% of respondents, respectively.
Communication Gaps: Patients and Doctors
Discussing depression and its side effects can be challenging. Only 20% of patients volunteer information about antidepressant-related sexual issues to their healthcare providers. Conversely, when asked directly, 59% report such problems.
Furthermore, a discrepancy exists between patient and doctor perceptions: only 16% of patients recall their doctor mentioning the potential for sexual side effects, whereas 69% of doctors believe they typically discuss this issue.
The Role of Antidepressants in Sexual Dysfunction
Dr. Ashton notes that antidepressant-associated sexual dysfunction can significantly impact patients, stressing the importance of communication between doctors and patients about medication side effects. Certain antidepressants, particularly those affecting serotonin, tend to have a higher incidence of sexual issues, reported by 34-67% of patients.
Wellbutrin XL, a norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor, is highlighted by Dr. Ashton as having a lower risk of sexual side effects compared to those impacting serotonin levels.
Empowering Patients Through Knowledge
Pepper Schwartz, Ph.D., a sociology professor at the University of Washington, emphasizes that patients should educate themselves about depression treatments and their side effects. This knowledge fosters a more comfortable dialogue with healthcare providers. According to Schwartz, a strong, communicative relationship with a doctor is essential for effective care.
Tips for Discussing Depression and Sexual Health
Understanding the potential side effects of medications and feeling confident in discussing them with healthcare professionals is crucial for managing MDD effectively.
Important Safety Information
- Wellbutrin XL is not suitable for everyone. It poses a seizure risk for those with a history of seizures, eating disorders, or those who have abruptly stopped using alcohol or sedatives.
- Interactions: Avoid using Wellbutrin XL with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or medicines containing bupropion. It may increase blood pressure, especially when used with nicotine patches.
- Side Effects: Possible side effects include weight loss, dry mouth, nausea, insomnia, dizziness, and sore throat.
- Approval: Wellbutrin XL is approved for adults 18 and over. Note that antidepressants may increase suicidal thoughts or actions in some children and teens.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Doctors Don t Ask Patients Don t Tell Some Surprising Side Effects of Treating Depression.
You can browse and read all the articles for free. If you want to use them and get PLR and MRR rights, you need to buy the pack. Learn more about this pack of over 100 000 MRR and PLR articles.