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Pharmacotherapy of Sexual Addiction

  • Sexual Disorders (LE Marshall and H Moulden, Section Editors)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

We reviewed recent data on sexual addiction and its treatment. We examined the different definitions of this disorder, related to the pathophysiological mechanisms. We addressed the pharmacological treatment of sexual addiction.

Recent Findings

Hypersexual behavior can be considered an addictive disorder. Sexual addiction is accompanied by significant psychiatric and addictive comorbidities and is responsible for life impairment. A comprehensive and efficient treatment must be proposed.

Summary

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors seem the first-line pharmacological treatment for sexual addiction. Naltrexone could be another therapeutic option. Psychotherapy and preferentially cognitive-behavioral therapy should be used in association with pharmacotherapy and treatments of comorbidities.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Adult Psychiatry and Medical Psychology, Saint-Antoine Hospital, Sorbonne Université, AP-HP, Paris, France

    Leo Malandain, Jean-Victor Blanc & Florian Ferreri

  2. University Hospital Cochin (site Tarnier), Paris University, AP-HP, Paris, France

    Florence Thibaut

  3. INSERM U1266, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurosciences, Paris, France

    Florence Thibaut

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  1. Leo Malandain
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  2. Jean-Victor Blanc
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Correspondence to Leo Malandain.

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Conflict of Interest

Leo Malandain, Jean-Victor Blanc, and Florian Ferreri each declare no potential conflicts of interest. Florence Thibaut is the Editor-in-Chief of Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience. The journal receives a grant from Servier.

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Malandain, L., Blanc, JV., Ferreri, F. et al. Pharmacotherapy of Sexual Addiction. Curr Psychiatry Rep 22, 30 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-020-01153-4

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