Atypical Antipsychotics and Sexual Functions in Schizophrenia: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Abstract Background: Antipsychotics are associated with sexual dysfunction. However, studies selectively exploring the sexual impact of atypical antipsychotics in a standardized male population are limited, and further more in the Indian context. Thus, a need was felt to understand, explore and assess the impact of atypical antipsychotics on sexual wellness in a standardized male population suffering from Schizophrenia. Objective: To study the effect of Atypical Antipsychotics on Sexual functions in sexually active male patients of Schizophrenia treated with Atypical Antipsychotics. Materials and Methods: 150 sexually active freshly diagnosed treatment naïve males with Schizophrenia were administered atypical antipsychotics. Their sexual functions were assessed after 1 month using Arizona Sexual Experience Questionnaire (ASEX). Results: Olanzapine, risperidone, and clozapine had maximum incidence of sexual dysfunction (SD) while quetiapine and aripiprazole were having the least. 54% had one or more SD, prominent ones being low sexual desire (54%), dissatisfaction with their sexual drive (41.3%), dissatisfaction with orgasm (39.3%) and inability to reach orgasm (32%). Conclusion: SD rates are higher among patients of Schizophrenia treated with Atypical Antipsychotics. All the domains of sexual functioning are affected. Clinicians should routinely assess the sexual functioning in patients on treatment with antipsychotics and should incorporate sexual health as a dimension in their treatment plan.