Drug-Induced Sexual Problems: Causes, Common Medications, and What to Do

When you take a medication for high blood pressure, depression, or even allergies, you might not expect it to affect your sex life. But drug-induced sexual problems, sexual side effects caused by prescription or over-the-counter drugs. Also known as medication-related sexual dysfunction, it’s more common than most people realize. About 1 in 3 adults on certain meds report changes in libido, arousal, or orgasm—and many never tell their doctor because they think it’s normal or embarrassing.

Some of the most common culprits include antidepressants, drugs used to treat depression and anxiety that can blunt sexual response, especially SSRIs like sertraline or fluoxetine. Blood pressure medications, including beta-blockers and diuretics are another major group—many people notice reduced erections or delayed ejaculation after starting these pills. Even hormonal treatments, like those for prostate cancer or birth control, can lower testosterone or alter natural cycles in ways that impact sexual function. These aren’t rare side effects—they’re well-documented in clinical studies and patient reports.

What makes this tricky is that the problem often shows up slowly. You might not connect the dots between starting a new pill and losing interest in sex until months later. And if you’re taking multiple meds—say, for diabetes, depression, and heart disease—the effects can pile up. Some people stop their meds out of frustration, but that’s risky. Others just live with it, thinking there’s no fix. There is. Sometimes switching to a different drug in the same class helps. Sometimes adding a low-dose counter-treatment works. And sometimes, simply knowing what’s causing it lets you have a real conversation with your provider.

Below, you’ll find real-world guides from people who’ve been there. You’ll learn which specific drugs are most likely to cause these issues, how to spot the difference between drug side effects and other causes, and what steps you can take without quitting your treatment. Whether you’re dealing with low drive, trouble staying aroused, or just feeling like sex isn’t the same anymore, you’re not alone—and there are practical ways forward.