The evaluation of sexual dysfunction among male patients with methamphetamine abuse and withdrawal

Abstract

Background: Although sexual dysfunction is a common problem among methamphetamine (MA) abusers, the prevalence and features of this disorder are not well known.Objectives: To evaluate sexual dysfunction in patients during MA abuse and withdrawal.Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted during March 2012 to April 2013. Ninety three subjects were studied within three groups. Group 1and 2 consisted of participants who were abused MA for less than and more than 1 month, respectively. Participants in group 3 were in first month of MA withdrawal. All of the subjects evaluated with the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV disorders (SCID-IV) and the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5).Results: Mean age of the patients was 25.86 ± 9.10, 28.96 ± 8.10 and 29.96 ± 9.30 year in group 1, 2 and 3, respectively (p = 0.09). Mean IIEF-5 scores was 22.12 ± 2.70, 16.43 ± 3.10 and 12.86 ± 6.30 in group 1, 2 and 3, respectively. There was significant difference in mean IIEF-5 scores between study groups (p = 0.02).Conclusion: Although MA can increase libido and sexual excitement in short-term usage, but may induce sexual dysfunction in long-term abuse and leading severe sexual dysfunction during withdrawal.