ASEX Scores Research Articles

Sexual dysfunction in women with migraine versus tension-type headaches: a comparative study

The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of sexual dysfunction between patients with tension-type headaches (T), migraines (M) and healthy controls (C) in order to investigate the relationship between sexual dysfunction and the features of headaches. The population comprised of 44 patients with M, 30 with T and 30 with C. They have completed Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX), Visual Analog Scale. The number of sexual activities over the past 30 days and the frequency of masturbation behavior in C were considerably higher than those in the headache groups. The averages for ASEX item no. 1, 2, 3 and 4 were significantly higher in those with M versus C; and both the subscales and total scores of ASEX were also higher in those with T than C. The mean score for ASEX item no. 3 and the total ASEX score were significantly higher in T versus M. In both headache groups, no significant relationship was observed between headache features and ASEX. The present study showed that patients with either M or T do experience problems in several aspects of sexuality compared with C. Further research is essential to augment our understanding of the sexual dysfunction in this field.

P03-207 Sexual dysfunction in a tunisian sample of drug free schizophrenic patients: A case-control-study

IntroductionSexual dysfunction is reported by up to 80% of schizophrenic patients and seems to be mainly associated with antipsychotic medications.ObjectiveThis study aimed to compare sexual functioning and sexual dysfunction, as assessed by the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale, in drug naïve or drug free schizophrenic patients and in healthy controls.MethodA consecutive sample of 109 patients meeting DSM-IV criteria of schizophrenia was constituted in psychiatry department of Sousse Farhat Hached hospital (Tunisia), during a 24 months period. They were drug naïve or drug free for at least three months. 109 age and gender matched, consenting controls were recruited among blood donors attending Farhat Hached hospital during the same period. They were free from psychotic disorders as screened by MINI-Plus. Sexual functioning was assessed using the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) in sexually active patients (N = 84) and controls (N = 94).ResultsThere were no statistical differences in sexual dysfunction rates between schizophrenic patients (20.6%) and healthy controls (13.1%), according to usual threshold values. Also, global ASEX score was similar in schizophrenic patients (12.93 ± 4.48) as in healthy controls (12.61 ± 2.60). Besides, different ASEX item scores including sex drive, arousal, vaginal lubrification/penile erection and orgasm have not shown any differences between patients and controls. Only sexual satisfaction score was higher in schizophrenic patients than in healthy controls (2.73 ± 0.95 vs. 2.43 ± 0.77; p = 0.02).ConclusionOur results showed a low rate of sexual dysfunction in drug free schizophrenic patients without statistical differences with healthy controls. Only sexual satisfaction was lower in schizophrenic patients.

Sexual dysfunction in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: clinical and hormonal correlations

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the sexual function of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), including the clinical and hormonal characteristics potentially related to sexual dysfunction, in an endocrinology and gynecology ambulatory. Methodology Women in ambulatory accompaniment for PCOS (N = 88) were sequentially evaluated by means of the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) and the application of structured diagnostic interview Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (version 4.4) for the identification of mood disorders. The clinical and laboratorial parameters were examined using the patient's medical records. Results The incidence of sexual dysfunction was verified (13.3%), and it was observed that the average (SD) ASEX score of 14.4 (3.7) was comparable with that of the population with no medical problems. There is a negative correlation between the scores of ASEX and the levels of total testosterone (−0.360), luteinizing hormone (−0.397), and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (−0.723). Conclusion The main factors of preservation of the sexual function in our sample were identified as the low average age of the patients in treatment and the hyperandrogenism habitually found as a consequence of the physiopathology of PCOS.

The effects of the adjunctive bupropion on male sexual dysfunction induced by a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor: a double‐blind placebo‐controlled and randomized study

To determine the safety and efficacy of adjunctive bupropion sustained-release (SR) on male sexual dysfunction (SD) induced by a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), as SD is a common side-effect of SSRIs and the most effective treatments have yet to be determined. The randomized sample consisted of 234 euthymic men who were receiving some type of SSRI. The men were randomly assigned to bupropion SR (150 mg twice daily, 117) or placebo (twice daily, 117) for 12 weeks. Efficacy was evaluated using the Clinical Global Impression-Sexual Function (CGI-SF; the primary outcome measure), the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX), and Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction (EDITS) (secondary outcome measures). Participants were followed biweekly during study period. After 12 weeks of treatment, the mean (sd) scores for CGI-SF were significantly lower, i.e. better, in patients on bupropion SR, at 2.4 (1.2), than in the placebo group, at 3.9 (1.1) (P= 0.01). Men who received bupropion had a significant increase in the total IIEF score (54.4% vs 1.2%; P= 0.003), and in the five different domains of the IIEF. Total ASEX scores were significantly lower, i.e. better, among men who received bupropion than placebo, at 15.5 (4.3) vs 21.5 (4.7) (P= 0.002). The EDITS scores were 67.4 (10.2) for the bupropion and 36.3 (11.7) for the placebo group (P= 0.001). The ASEX score and CGI-SF score were correlated (P= 0.003). In linear regression analyses the CGI-SF score was not affected significantly by the duration of SD, type of SSRI used and age. Bupropion is an effective treatment for male SD induced by SSRIs. These results provide empirical support for conducting a further study of bupropion.

The Effect of Family Planning Methods Used by Women of Reproductive Age on Their Sexual Life

The family planning (FP) methods used by women of reproductive age can have negative or positive influences on the sex lives of couples. Couples should be aware of the effects of the FP method they use on their sex lives to be able to improve the quality. This descriptive study was carried out to determine the effects of contraceptive methods on the sex lives of women. The study was conducted at the Family Planning Center and Gynecology Clinics of an Obstetrics and Gynecology and Children’s Hospital. The sampling comprised of 366 women who had applied to these centers. Data collection forms generated based on the literature and the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) were used as data collection tools. The average ASEX scores were similar for women using the withdrawal method as a traditional method (:13.75), RIA as a modern method (:13.93), condoms (:13.30), and oral contraceptives (:13.37), were found to be similar (p > 0.05). Since the average scores of ASEX were higher than 11, problems in sexual life were determined at high levels. The difference between ASEX average scores and duration of family planning, problems due to the method, duration of marriage, number of pregnancies and living infants, frequency of sexual intercourse, communication between partners, and self-declared sexual perception; was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The study found higher than normal average ASEX scores and we therefore suggest counseling services, provided by healthcare staff, on sexual health and family planning that include information on FP methods and their effects on sex life.

Antidepressant-Induced Sexual Dysfunction among Newer Antidepressants in a Naturalistic Setting

ObjectiveAntidepressants used to treat depression are frequently associated with sexual dysfunction. Sexual side effects affect the patient's quality of life and, in long-term treatment, can lead to non-compliance and relapse. However, studies covering many antidepressants with differing mechanisms of action were scarce. The present study assessed and compared the incidence of sexual dysfunction among different antidepressants in a naturalistic setting.MethodsParticipants were married patients diagnosed with depression, per DSM-IV diagnostic criteria, who had been taking antidepressants for more than 1 month. We assessed the participants via the Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and assessed their demographic variables, types and dosages of antidepressants, and duration of antidepressant use via their medical records.ResultsOne hundred and one patients (46 male, 55 female, age 42.2±7 years) completed the instruments. Thirteen were taking fluoxetine (mean dose 21.3±8.5 mg/day), 24 were taking paroxetine (mean dose 20.4±7.2 mg/day), 20 taking citalopram (mean dose 22.1±6.5 mg/day), 22, venlafaxine (mean dose 115.7±53.2 mg/day) and 22, mirtazapine (mean dose 18±8.7 mg/day). Mean ages, sex ratios, and BDI and STAI scores did not differ significantly across antidepressants. A substantial number of participants (46.5%, n=47) experienced sexual dysfunction. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction differed across drugs: citalopram 60% (n=12), venlafaxine 54.5% (n=12), paroxetine 54.2% (n=13), fluoxetine 46.2% (n=6), and mirtazapine 18.2% (n=4). Regression analyses revealed the significant factors for sexual dysfunction were being female, total scores on the BDI and SAI, and type of antidepressant (F=4.92, p<0.0001). Of the antidepressants, the mirtarzapine group's total ASEX score was significantly lower than the scores of the citalopram, fluoxetine, and paroxetine groups.ConclusionThe incidence of sexual dysfunction was substantially high during antidepressant treatment. The incidence of sexual dysfunction differed among antidepressants having different mechanisms of action. Our study suggests the need for clinicians to consider the impact of pharmacotherapy on patients' sexual functioning in the course of treatment with antidepressants.

Cardiovascular disease risk, vascular health and erectile dysfunction among middle-aged, clinically depressed men

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is especially common in men with major depressive disorder (MDD). This study examined the extent to which risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and vascular endothelial dysfunction were associated with ED severity in MDD patients. The sample included 46 middle-aged [M (s.d.)=53 (7) years], sedentary men diagnosed with MDD. ED severity was assessed by the Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX), item 3. Depression severity was measured by the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI). The Framingham risk score was calculated as a composite measure of CVD risk factors. Vascular endothelial function was measured by flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery. Regression analysis showed that ASEX scores were predicted by the greater Framingham risk score (beta=0.41, P=0.008) and lower FMD (beta=-0.38, P=0.01), but not by BDI scores (beta=0.00, P=0.99). When FMD was included in the regression model, the relationship between Framingham risk and ASEX scores was partially attenuated (beta=0.27, P=0.08). ED was associated with greater CVD risk and impaired vascular endothelial function in depressed men. CVD risk factors may affect ED through impairment of vascular endothelial function.

Prevalence and impact of antidepressant-associated sexual dysfunction in three European countries: replication in a cross-sectional patient survey

Sexual dysfunction is a common but often unrecognized side effect of many antidepressants. Building upon the results of a previous investigation, this study aimed to assess the prevalence and impact of antidepressant-associated sexual dysfunction (AASD) in three European countries. A cross-sectional survey of 704 adults in Germany, Spain, and The Netherlands was used in the study. All participants had recently started taking a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor or serotonin- noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. Information about other medications and conditions known to impair sexual functioning was gathered, and changes in sexual functioning and the impact of such changes were assessed. The SF-12 and Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) were administered to measure health status and sexual functioning. AASD was defined using ASEX scores and information regarding changes in sexual functioning. ASEX scores generally exceeded the threshold defining sexual dysfunction: 67.2% in the German, 79.4% in the Spanish, and 73.3% in the Dutch samples. The prevalence of AASD was conservatively estimated to be between 37.1% (German sample) and 61.5% (Spanish sample). Overall, 46.4% of male and 52.1% of female participants were classified with AASD. Patients classified with AASD reported significantly worse quality of life (QoL), self-esteem, mood, and relationships with partners, compared with non-AASD patients. There were significant differences between patients with and without AASD in SF-12 Mental Component scores, with AASD patients displaying poorer mental well-being. Sexual dysfunction is a frequent occurrence during antidepressant treatment, and is associated with reduced QoL and self-esteem, and negative effects on mood and relationships.

Methylphenidate Extended Release (OROS MPH) for the Treatment of Antidepressant-Related Sexual Dysfunction in Patients With Treatment-Resistant Depression

There are limited data to indicate effective treatment strategies for antidepressant-related sexual dysfunction, in particular for patients with treatment-resistant major depression. We subanalyzed our published data whether augmentation with methylphenidate extended release (OROS MPH) improved sexual dysfunction associated with antidepressants in patients with treatment-resistant major depression. The primary efficacy measure was the change in Arizona Sexual Experiences Survey (ASEX) from baseline to end of treatment in an intent-to-treat analysis with last observation carried forward approach. There were no significant differences between the 2 groups in terms of changes in ASEX scores over time (F1,35 = 1.14; P = 0.32), although the numerical decrease in ASEX score was greater in OROS MPH (mean change, -4.5; 20.1% decrease) than in the placebo group (mean change, -0.6; 2.6% decrease). Augmentation with OROS MPH showed no statistically significant benefit in antidepressant-related sexual dysfunction, although addition of OROS MPH to antidepressants did not worsen preexisting sexual dysfunction. Adequately powered controlled trials are needed to fully evaluate the efficacy of OROS MPH in this area.

P03-198 Sexual dysfunction in patients on antipsychotic therapy Vladica Sibinovic psychiatry clinic CC Nis

The aim of this study was to determine difference in sexual dysfunction between 137 stabilized male outpatients who met ICD-10 criteria for acute and transient psychotic disorders (F 23) and schizophrenia (F 20) under therapy atypical and typical antipsychotic.Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) and the subscale on sexual function of the UKU Side Effects Rating Scale were applied at a single interview.Sexual dysfunction was observed in 55, 47% (76 patients). We find higher ASEX and UKU score in patient with schizophrenia under therapy atypical and typical antipsychotic (p=0, 01). in patients with schizophrenia under typical antipsychotic, orgastic dysfunction (p&lt; 0, 05) is more common.Ejaculatory dysfunction and erectile dysfunction are also high in that group (p&lt; 0, 05).Therapies with atypical and typical antipsychotic have the same effects on increased or diminished sexual desire in bout group of patients.In patients with schizophrenia under typical antipsychotic there is higher ASEX score then in patients under atypical antipsychotic (p&lt; 0, 05). Patients with acute and transient psychotic disorders do not have difference on level of sexual dysfunction in correlation with treated by atypical and typical antipsychotic.Results show that sexual dysfunction is more common in patients with schizophrenia under therapy with typical antipsychotic. in group of patients with acute and transient psychotic disorders there is no difference betven therapy atypical or typical antipsychotic in sexual dysfunction.

Effects of aerobic exercise on sexual functioning in depressed adults

Objective Exercise appears to be generally comparable to antidepressant medication in reducing depressive symptoms. The current study examines the effects of aerobic exercise, compared to antidepressant medication and placebo pill, on sexual function among depressed adults. Methods Two hundred clinically depressed adults, aged 40 years and over, who were sedentary and generally overweight, were randomized to 4 months of Aerobic Exercise, Sertraline (Zoloft), or Placebo pill, for the treatment of depression. Exercise condition participants engaged in walking, running, or biking, 30 min/day, 3 days/week, to 70–85% of their heart rate reserve, in either a supervised group setting or independently at home. Before and following treatment, participants completed the Arizona Sexual Experiences Questionnaire (ASEX) and the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D). An ANCOVA was performed to test the effects of treatment on post-treatment sexual function, controlling for age, sex, body mass index, diabetes, hypertension, pretreatment HAM-D scores, and pretreatment ASEX scores. Results The treatment group main effect was significant ( p = .02); exercisers had better post-treatment ASEX scores (adjusted ASEX M = 16.6) compared to the placebo group (adjusted ASEX M = 18.3; p = .01). Exercisers had post-treatment ASEX scores that were marginally better compared to the sertraline group, but this difference did not reach statistical significance (adjusted ASEX M = 17.9; p = .05). Conclusion Aerobic exercise, which has been associated with reduced symptoms of depression comparable to antidepressant medication, appears to result in greater improvement in sexual function compared to placebo pill. A nonsignificant trend towards better sexual function among exercisers compared to antidepressant medication may be attributable to medication-related sexual side effects.

Tolterodine Immediate Release Improves Sexual Function in Women with Overactive Bladder

Quality of life studies indicate that overactive bladder (OAB) has a greater negative impact on everyday life than other serious conditions such as diabetes. The detrimental effect of OAB on female sexual health is more prominent than urinary incontinence. We know that tolterodine immediate release (IR) has a beneficial effect on urinary symptoms in OAB. To evaluate the impact of tolterodine IR on sexual function in patients with OAB. A total of 30 sexually active women with OAB from 20 to 52 years were included. All patients filled out the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire (ICIQ) and the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) before treatment with tolterodine IR and at the end of each month of treatment until 3 months. Expected outcomes were improvements in the ICIQ and ASEX total score. All ASEX items were expected to improve individually. These improvements indicate better sexual function after treatment. Results. The mean of the total ASEX score improved relative to baseline in the first (P<0.01), second (P<0.01), and third (P<0.01) follow-up. The mean of scores for sexual desire, arousal, vaginal lubrication, orgasm, and orgasm satisfaction improved significantly (P<0.01) with each follow-up. Tolterodine IR significantly improves sexual function of women with OAB. Improvement is seen in all domains of sexual function.

Effect of risperidone and olanzapine on reproductive hormones, psychopathology and sexual functioning in male patients with schizophrenia

To study the effect of drugs on the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis we compared the endocrine actions of two neuroleptics with different receptor affinity profiles-risperidone and olanzapine in male schizophrenic patients. We investigated the levels of prolactin, estradiol, testosterone, LH, FSH and testicular peptide hormone-inhibin B, and we assessed psychopathology (PANSS), sexual function (ASEX) and treatment adherence (DAI-10) in 89 male schizophrenic inpatients treated with olanzapine or risperidone administered orally. The initial and final evaluations were carried out at weeks 3 and 8 after the onset of treatment, respectively. At initial evaluation the mean serum prolactin and inhibin B levels were markedly higher, whereas testosterone level was lower in patients treated with risperidone, than in those treated with olanzapine. In 5 out of 50 subjects from risperidone group (10%) and in 1 from olanzapine group (2.6%) testosterone levels were below the lower limit (<241ng/ml), which reflected Leydig's cell impairment. In one patient receiving risperidone and in three receiving olanzapine, inhibin B level was below 80pg/ml, indicating Sertoli's cell dysfunction. At the final evaluation the mean serum prolactin level was markedly higher in patients taking risperidone, whereas their FSH levels were lower than in patients receiving olanzapine. In all investigated groups, except for the risperidone-hyperprolactinemic group inhibin B levels were negatively correlated with serum FSH. The mean LH, FSH, testosterone and estradiol levels were within the normal reference range at initial and final evaluation. The non-adherence to medications and ASEX scores were significantly higher in risperidone groups. Sexual dysfunction and medication non-adherence was not related to prolactin or gonadal hormone levels. Risperidone elicited higher PRL elevation than olanzapine. Treatment with this medication can be associated with disturbances in reproductive hormones (testosterone) and gonadotropins (FSH). The cause of olanzapine-elicited reduction of inhibin B level and the lack of negative correlation between FSH and inhibin B in patients with risperidone-induced hyperprolactinemia require further investigation. Patients receiving risperidone showed higher level of sexual dysfunction and treatment non-adherence than those treated with olanzapine.

A comparision of switching strategies from risperidone to aripiprazole in patients with schizophrenia with insufficient efficacy/tolerability on risperidone (cn138-169)

Background and Aim:To evaluate safety, tolerability and overall effectiveness of a titrated- versus fixed-dose switching strategy from risperidone to aripiprazole in a general practice setting.Methods:This 12-week, multicentre, open-label study included patients with schizophrenia (DSM-IV-TR) experiencing insufficient efficacy and/or safety/tolerability issues while receiving risperidone for ≥6 weeks. Patients were randomized to titrated- or fixed-dose switching regimens.Results:Discontinuations due to AEs were similar between titrated- and fixed-dose strategies (3.5% vs. 5.0%; p=0.448). Titrated- and fixed-dose groups showed improvements (Week 12) in mean PANSS Total scores (–14.8 vs. –17.2; LOCF), mean CGI-I scores (2.9 vs. 2.8; p=0.425; LOCF), ASEX scores (–1.5 vs. –1.9 from baseline; OC), serum prolactin levels (−48.7 vs. −48.5 from baseline; OC) and SWN scores (+8.6 vs. +10.3 from baseline; p=0.223; OC). POM scores indicated a preference for aripiprazole compared with risperidone using either regimen. Both strategies showed improvements (titrated-dose vs. fixed-dose; Week 12; LOCF) in social cognition as indicated by decreased GEOPTE patient (–5.3 vs. –6.1), caregiver (–5.4 vs. –9.9) and index scores (–5.1 vs. –9.8).Conclusion:Switching to aripiprazole from risperidone can be effectively and safely achieved in a general practice setting through a slow down-titration of risperidone and either a titrated- or fixed-dose switching strategy for aripiprazole.

Sexual functioning associated with quetiapine switch vs. risperidone continuation in outpatients with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder: A randomized double-blind pilot trial

This study evaluated the effect of switching to quetiapine vs. risperidone continuation on sexual functioning in outpatients with risperidone-associated sexual dysfunction. Outpatients ( n = 42, age ≥ 18 years) with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder who experienced risperidone-associated sexual dysfunction were randomized to 6 weeks of double-blind risperidone continuation (mean dose = 4.1 mg/day, S.D. = 1.2) or quetiapine switch (mean dose = 290.0 mg/day, S.D. = 55.2) treatment. The five-item Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) assessed sexual functioning at baseline and subsequently at weeks 2, 4 and 6. A mixed-model analysis of repeated measures included gender and baseline ASEX and PANSS scores as covariates. There was no significant Treatment Group effect for ASEX total scores and ASEX sub-items, and no significant Treatment Group × Period interaction for ASEX total scores and ASEX sub-items. Treatment Group effects were not significantly different in any of the prospective weeks for ASEX total scores and ASEX sub-items. Adjusted mean ASEX total scores were slightly lower in the quetiapine switch group than in the risperidone continuation group at weeks 2 and 6 (21.27 vs. 22.18 and 18.51 vs. 20.53, respectively), but were nearly identical at week 4 (20.01 vs. 20.15). In this pilot trial, sexual functioning did not differ significantly between outpatients receiving quetiapine switch vs. risperidone continuation, although the quetiapine switch group had slightly lower adjusted mean ASEX total scores at weeks 2 and 6.

Sexual Dysfunctions in Patients with Neurodermatitis and Psoriasis

We investigated sexual dysfunction and accompanying depression in patients with neurodermatitis and psoriasis. Patients with neurodermatitis (n = 31) and psoriasis (n = 24) were compared to control cases (n = 33) with Beck depression scale (BDS) and Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX). Beck Depression Scale and ASEX scores varied between three groups. In two group comparisons, the neurodermatitis group had more sexual problems than the psoriasis group and the control group. Patients with neurodermatitis and psoriasis have sexual dysfunction and depression in the course of these chronic diseases and the higher frequency of sexual problems was seen in patients with neurodermatitis.

Sexual Function in Female Patients with Unstable Angina or Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Coronary artery disease is the leading cause of death and disability for both women and men. The psychological impact of acute myocardial infarction, as well as the physiological effects of the illness and its medications, can have a major effect on a patient's ability to resume sexual activity. To assess sexual activity in female patients with unstable angina or non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and to study the impact of cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) on resumption of sexual activity. Doppler-echocardiographic study, exercise tolerance test (ETT), and assessment of sexual activity. This study was conducted in the Riyadh National Hospital and included 35 female patients admitted to the intensive care unit for management of unstable angina or NSTEMI. All patients were enrolled into a CR program. All of them were interviewed for assessment of sexual activity, 12 weeks post discharge. The Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) was used for the assessment of the severity of sexual dysfunction for patients who resumed their sexual activity. Results indicate that 48.57% of the patients resumed their sexual activity at the time of the interview. However, most of them were either not satisfied at all with their sexual activity or mostly dissatisfied. The remaining patients (51.43%) had not resumed sex yet. CR was completed by 70.59% of those resuming sex, and 38.89% of those not resuming sex. We estimated that rehabilitated patients were 3.77 times more likely to resume sexual activity than those who did not receive rehabilitation. ASEX score ranged from 19 to 30, with a mean of 24.118 +/- 3.42. Unstable angina and NSTEMI have a negative impact on frequency of, and satisfaction with, sexual activity, and lead to sexual dysfunction within a large number of female patients. Accurate and complete sexual instructions for both partners with specific attention paid to the woman's concerns and needs should be part of CR programs.

Sexual dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia on antipsychotic medication

Objective The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia under antipsychotic therapy and to investigate the effect of various parameters on sexual dysfunction. Method A total of 827 stabilized outpatients who met DSM-IV criteria for schizophrenia, were recruited in the study. Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) and the subscale on sexual function of the UKU Side Effects Rating Scale were applied at a single interview. Results In total, 52.6% of the patients had sexual dysfunction, 54.2% reported a low sexual desire and 41.7% reported problems in having an orgasm. Erectile dysfunction and ejaculation problems were seen in 48.1% and 64.2% of the men, respectively; amenorrhea was seen in 24.9% of the women. ASEX score and severity of disease were found to be correlated ( p = 0.02). Higher ASEX scores were observed in patients who smoked ( p = 0.01). Men receiving atypical monotherapy had lower ASEX scores than those receiving a combination of atypical and conventional antipsychotics ( p = 0.017). Patients on combination therapy had more ejaculation problems than the atypical group ( p = 0.001). Low sexual desire was more prevalent among women using conventional drugs than those on atypical drugs ( p = 0.004). In linear regression analyses, ASEX was affected significantly and independently by the severity of the disease only in men ( p = 0.005). Conclusion Our results show that sexual dysfunction is widespread among patients with schizophrenia on antipsychotic medications.

An open-label, fixed-dose study of bupropion effect on sexual function scores in women treated for breast cancer

BackgroundSexual morbidity after chemotherapy and hormonal therapy for breast cancer can seriously affect patients' quality of life. Bupropion is an antidepressant that has been reported to increase libido. ObjectiveTo investigate the improvement of sexual function in female breast cancer patients using bupropion. Patients and methodsWe performed an 8-week open trial using bupropion in women diagnosed with breast cancer who had received chemotherapy and were currently receiving adjunctive hormonal therapy. The Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) was used. The ASEX scale includes five questions that evaluate sexual function in the following areas: libido, excitability and ability to reach orgasm. Women received oral Bupropion 150 mg/daily for 8 weeks and were evaluated prior to the initiation of the study and again during Weeks 4 and 8. ResultsTwenty patients were included in the study. At the beginning of the study, the mean ASEX score was 23.45 [21.67–25.24] 95% CI. After 4 weeks of treatment, we observed a reduction in the mean ASEX score that persisted until the end of the study, at eight weeks: 18.45 [16.59–20.31] 95% CI (P = 0.0003) and 18.95 [16.60–21.30] 95% CI (P = 0.0024), respectively. ConclusionIn this non-controlled open trial bupropion 150 mg/daily was associated with improved sexual function in women receiving adjuvant systemic treatment for breast cancer.

Bupropion in the tratment of sexual dysfunction in women diagnosed with breast cancer: An open-label, fixed dose study

6072 Background: Sexual morbidity after chemotherapy and hormonal therapy for breast cancer can seriously affect patients’ quality of life. Bupropion is an antidepressant that has been reported to increase libido. Objective: To investigate the improvement of sexual function in female breast cancer patients using bupropion. Methods: We performed an eight week open trial using bupropion in women diagnosed with breast cancer who had received chemotherapy and were currently receiving adjunctive hormonal therapy. The Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) was used. The ASEX scale includes five questions that evaluate sexual function in the following areas: libido, excitability and ability to reach orgasm. Women received oral Bupropion 150mg/ daily for eight weeks and were evaluated prior to the initiation of the study and again during Weeks 4 and 8. Results: Twenty patients were included in the study. At the beginning of the study, the mean ASEX score was 23.45 [21.67–25.24] 95% CI. After four weeks of treatment, we observed a reduction in the mean ASEX score that persisted until the end of the study, at eight weeks: 18.45 [16.59–20.31] 95% CI, p = 0.0003) and 18.95 (SD ± 5.02 [16.60–21.30] 95% CI, p = 0.0024), respectively. Conclusions: In this non-controlled open trial bupropion 150 mg/daily was associated with improved sexual function in women receiving adjuvant systemic treatment for breast cancer. No significant financial relationships to disclose.