New Technique to Predict Sexual Side Effects of Antidepressants

Researchers have discovered a new technique that uses a simple test based on electroencephalography (EEG) to measure serotonin levels in the brain. This technique can predict who might experience sexual side effects from SSRI antidepressants, such as difficulty achieving orgasm.

Introduction to the Study

The study was conducted in Copenhagen and involved 90 individuals diagnosed with depression. A test known as “LDAEP” was used to measure serotonin activity in the brain. This non-invasive test works similarly to a hearing test, showing how the brain processes sounds and reflecting serotonin levels in the brain.

Study Results

The study showed that individuals with higher serotonin activity before starting treatment were more likely to develop sexual side effects by the end of the 8-week treatment period. The ability to predict sexual side effects, particularly difficulty achieving orgasm, reached an accuracy of 87%.

The researchers also emphasized the need for larger studies with more male participants to obtain a more accurate picture of the drug’s effects on sexual ability.

Significance of the Study Results

If these results are confirmed, they could enable doctors to select antidepressants that minimize sexual side effects for patients most susceptible to these issues. This could improve patient adherence to treatment and enhance their overall quality of life.

These findings are an important step toward providing precise and personalized treatment for depression, helping doctors make better decisions regarding appropriate medication for each patient.

Future and Challenges

A broader study involving 600 patients is currently underway to verify these results and examine how serotonin levels interact with sexual hormone levels during antidepressant treatment. If similar results are obtained, this test could significantly impact how doctors treat depression.

Some challenges remain, such as improving the test’s accuracy and increasing the number of participants in future studies to obtain more comprehensive results.

Conclusion

This study suggests the potential use of the “LDAEP” test to predict possible sexual side effects of SSRI antidepressants. This could lead to improved treatment regimens and provide personalized solutions for patients suffering from depression, enhancing their quality of life and reducing the rates of treatment discontinuation due to side effects.