Focuses on a study which examined the effectiveness of the drug VML
670, developed by Vernalis and Eli Lilly, in restoring libido in
conjunction with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI). How SSRI
cause the loss of libido.
By
Alyce Warren, published on January 01, 2002
PROZAC HEADACHE
It's a side effect that many dread and few discuss: the loss of
libido that sometimes accompanies selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
(SSRIs). Now, there's a glimmer of hope. A British biopharmaceutical
company is developing a drug that will restore normal sex drive when
taken in conjunction with SSRIs--antidepressants that include Prozac,
Zoloft and Paxil. The drug, now known as VML 670, is being codeveloped by
Vernalis and Eli Lilly.
Studies suggest that one third of SSRI users suffer adverse sexual
side effects. Men experience difficulty maintaining an erection, and
women report difficulty attaining orgasm. SSRIs flood the brain with
serotonin, overloading the receptors that control sexual arousal, and
decreasing sexual desire. When tested on rodents, VML 670 increased their
interest in sex and their ability to achieve orgasm.
According to John Hutchison, Ph.D., senior vice president for
development at Vernalis, "it took less time for the animals to get
together."
Vernalis enrolled 70 male and female subjects in clinical tests.
The drug does not appear to alter the sex drive of non-SSRI users.
Vernalis expects results from SSRI users by the end of the year. Since
the regulatory process takes several years, the drug might be half a
decade away from your medicine cabinet. Meanwhile, you may just have to
keep feigning those headaches.
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