How to Manage Excessive Libido: Seeking Help and Medication Options - Psychiatry

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How to reduce sexual desire?


If you have a high sex drive and are looking to lower it, you may consider consulting a healthcare professional, specifically an endocrinologist or a psychiatrist, who can evaluate your situation and discuss potential treatment options.
Medications that have anti-androgen effects, such as those similar to Androcur, may be prescribed.
However, it is important to understand that these medications can lead to significant side effects, including the potential for permanent loss of libido and erectile function, effectively resulting in chemical castration.
It is crucial to have an open and honest discussion with your doctor about your concerns, including any feelings of distress or fear of acting on impulses.
They can help you explore both medical and therapeutic options to address your needs safely and effectively.
Access to these medications may vary, and a thorough assessment will be necessary to determine the appropriate course of action.

Little Cat, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/01

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry


Hello, regarding the medication you inquired about, I’m sorry, but I am not familiar with it and cannot provide an answer.
As for concerns about poor impulse control, it is advisable to seek evaluation and recommendations from a healthcare professional.

Reply Date: 2017/06/01

More Info


Managing excessive libido can be a complex issue that often requires a multidisciplinary approach. If you find that your sexual desire is overwhelming and is causing you distress or leading to potential harmful behaviors, it is essential to seek professional help. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to approach this situation.


Seeking Professional Help
1. Consult a Mental Health Professional: The first step is to consult with a psychiatrist or a psychologist. They can help assess your mental health and determine if there are underlying psychological issues contributing to your excessive libido. Conditions such as anxiety, depression, or past trauma can sometimes manifest as heightened sexual desire.

2. Visit an Endocrinologist: If the excessive libido is suspected to be related to hormonal imbalances, an endocrinologist can evaluate your hormone levels. They can check for conditions such as hyperandrogenism, which can lead to increased libido.

3. Consider a Urologist or Sexual Health Specialist: If you are experiencing physical symptoms related to your libido, such as erectile dysfunction or other sexual health concerns, a urologist or a sexual health specialist can provide insights and treatment options.


Medication Options
1. Anti-androgens: Medications like spironolactone or cyproterone acetate can be prescribed to reduce testosterone levels, which may help in managing excessive libido. These medications work by blocking the effects of androgens (male hormones) in the body.

2. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): Some SSRIs, commonly used as antidepressants, have a side effect of reducing libido. Medications like fluoxetine (Prozac) or sertraline (Zoloft) may help in managing excessive sexual desire.

3. GnRH Agonists: In some cases, medications that suppress the release of gonadotropins (like leuprolide) can be used to achieve a chemical castration effect, significantly lowering libido. However, these are typically reserved for severe cases and should be discussed thoroughly with a healthcare provider.


Lifestyle Modifications
1. Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be beneficial in addressing the thoughts and behaviors associated with excessive libido. A therapist can help you develop coping strategies and healthier sexual attitudes.

2. Exercise: Regular physical activity can help regulate hormones and improve mood, which may indirectly help manage libido.

3. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, yoga, or deep-breathing exercises can help reduce anxiety and stress, which might contribute to heightened sexual desire.


Addressing Concerns About Medication
It is crucial to have an open discussion with your healthcare provider about your concerns regarding medications. While some medications can significantly reduce libido and sexual function, they may also have side effects that need to be considered. It is essential to weigh the benefits against the potential risks.


Conclusion
In summary, managing excessive libido involves a combination of professional help, medication, and lifestyle changes. Start by consulting a mental health professional or an endocrinologist to explore the underlying causes of your condition. From there, you can discuss appropriate medication options and lifestyle modifications that can help you achieve a healthier balance. Remember, it is essential to approach this issue with care and seek guidance from qualified healthcare professionals.

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