Question:
Dr Heller,
I have only been on Paxil 20 mg a day for the past month. I
am feeling wonderful, but wonder if I
need to remain on the medication. I was diagnosed with a
mild case of clinical depression and this is what my Doctor
prescribed. I have been experiencing erectile dysfunction
since taking the Paxil and wondered if getting off it now
after a month will either return the depression, cause any
of the side effects that I've read about, or have some
adverse affect. I am a healthy, 40 y/o white male in good
physical shape. I take no other medications and have no
other significant medical history. Your reply would be
greatly appreciated.
Dr. Heller's Answer:
In general treating for only one month is a bad idea. SSRI
medications like Paxil usually don't cause erectile
problems, usually a difficulty having orgasms. You need to
speak with your physician about trying an alternative
antidepressant and possibly checking your testosterone
level, since low testosterone can cause depression.
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