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HAART Sexual Dysfunction

Posted: Oct 25, 2006

QUESTION:

I am a 46 year old male, with a CD4 count averaging 200-250, and a viral load undetectable for three years.

I would say gradually over the past two years, my sexual desire has dropped from about 95% to 5% or lower. I still feel men are attractive, but the sexual spark that was once there has almost completely disappeared. Sexual arousal rarely presents itself, but quickly disappates. Erections are hard to maintain and retreat quickly. My testosterone levels are normal, and psychologically I feel the same, but feel as though there is "some kind of neurological blockage" preventing the usual hightenment of excitement I used to experience. I feel fine about my attractiveness and feel that I am more desireable than I have felt in my life. My doctor is checking my thyroid function to see if that may be affecting my sexual state. I achieve erections that men achieve now and then upon waking in the morning. Any input would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance!

I am on Atripla, Septra, Hydrochlorothiazide and Benzepril. The high blood pressure meds are supposed to not have an effect on sexual dysfunction.

I have been on HAART for over three years now, and adhere to medications stringently.

Norm


  

RESPONSE FROM:   

    Norm, Thanks for your post.

    Sounds like your generally doing well, but the issue of sexual dysfunction is important. Testosterone doesn't seem to be the cause, but hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) can cause sexual problems in some patients (according to Epocrates and the PDR). Your other medications aren't associated with any sexual dysfunction.

    It might be worth considering seeing if a monitored switch off of HCTZ improves any of your symptoms.

    Best of luck, BY




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