There is a large body of evidence supporting the correlation between ED and depression.

A recent systematic review and meta-analysis* published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, concludes “an association between depression and ED. Policymakers, clinicians and patients should attend to the association between depression and ED.”

Some oral ED medications aren’t working for patients with depressive disorders. Is this normal?

This can be certainly normal. Although oral ED medications are generally effective, they may not work for everyone. However, there are other safer treatments available for men with ED and depression.

Do side effects of antidepressants affect men’s health?

There are some harmful side effects of antidepressants that often affect men’s sexual function. Although antidepressants work to relieve depression, they can potentially decrease libido and contribute to sexual dysfunction.

There are available treatments for depression and impotence that do not generally conflict with other medications taken. Thus, it’s best to consult a physician concerning the right treatment for sexual dysfunction.

Are there antidepressants that have fewer sexual side effects?

According to an article by the American Academy of Family Physicians, evidence shows that bupropion (Wellbutrin), trazodone (Desyrel) and nefazodone (Serzone) have a lower risk a causing or exasperating sexual dysfunction than other antidepressants.

However, you must seek medical advice from an expert before undergoing treatment for depression and erectile dysfunction.

Is it possible for depressive patients to manifest no signs of ED?

There is no clear evidence that will support if depression will affect every man’s sexual function.  However, a study from the University Of New Mexico School Of Medicine shows that depressive patients are twice as likely to develop erectile dysfunction.

In some cases, depressive men without symptoms of sexual dysfunction should talk with an expert for preventive measures.

Can depression lead to impotence?

Having depression does not mean that you’ll become impotent. Although, there are recent studies that will support a strong link between depression and impotence.

Taking preventative actions such as proper exercise, keeping low cholesterol levels and refraining from smoking can also help improve erectile function.  Nowadays, lifestyle modification is important to lessen the risk for depression and erectile dysfunction.

Why does depression cause erectile dysfunction?

ED and depression are interrelated. Also, psychological and physiological symptoms of depression can lead to sexual dysfunction. Depression can affect neurotransmitters in the brain, potentially resulting in poor sexual stimulation and erection problems.

Some antidepressants can diminish libido and often result to impotence. On the other hand, emotional stress as a result of erectile dysfunction can eventually lead to crisis in men with ED and depression.

* Liu Q, Zhang Y, Wang J, et al. Erectile dysfunction and depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Sex Med 2018