There are many causes for our loss of libido or sex drive and some are linked to prescription medications. The antidepressants Prozac, Zoloft, and other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) improve mood by raising serotonin, but the downside is that they can also lower libido, says Irwin Goldstein, MD, director of sexual medicine at Alvarado Hospital in San Diego. Beta blockers used for heart problems can also reduce desire. Elavil used to treat shingles can reduce libido as can oral contraceptives. Proscar used to treat enlarged prostate has an active ingredient called finasteride. It is also found in a drug called Propecia which is used to mitigate hair loss in men. Finasteride prevents testosterone from converting into its active form and lower testosterone can lead to lower libido. Antihistamines used for allergies can also lower libido while you are using the drug. Vicodin, OxyContin, and Percocet, used for pain management also have loss of libido as a side-effect. Read the side effects of all prescriptions and ask your doctor or naturopath if there is a safer alternative. Medical Marijuana can also contribute to loss of libido and erectile dysfunction.
Testosterone is needed by both men and to a lesser degree women but levels naturally decline in men starting at age 30 and in women reduced testosterone and virtually nonexistent estrogen levels can occur, lowering libido after menopause To be sure, ask your Doctor to test all of your hormone levels.
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