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Opioid-Related Sexual Dysfunction in Men

  • Male Sexual Dysfunction and Disorders (AW Pastuszak and NK Gupta, Section Editors)
  • Published:
Current Sexual Health Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Opioids are the cornerstone for pain treatment with significant recent increases in the number of prescriptions. Sexual dysfunction (SD) is a major side effect of opioid therapy. The goal of this review is to examine the current literature on the effects of opioids on male SD (erectile dysfunction [ED], hypogonadism, ejaculatory dysfunction) and infertility.

Recent Findings

High prevalence of SD exists in men with opioid use as compared to the general population, with an abundance of evidence suggesting an association between opioid use and ED and hypogonadism. There appears to be a role for testosterone replacement therapy for hypogonadism in men on opioid therapy. Screening for low testosterone levels is recommended in men on opioid therapy with signs and symptoms of androgen deficiency. Data on fertility, ejaculatory, and orgasmic dysfunction are limited.

Summary

SD is significantly affected by opioid therapy in men. Data demonstrate the benefits of screening for SD and treatment for hypogonadism.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Urology, University of California, Irvine, 333 The City Blvd W, Suite 2100, Orange, CA, 92868, USA

    Catherine T. Nguyen, Justin La & Faysal A. Yafi

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  1. Catherine T. Nguyen
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  2. Justin La
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Correspondence to Faysal A. Yafi.

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Male Sexual Dysfunction and Disorders

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Nguyen, C.T., La, J. & Yafi, F.A. Opioid-Related Sexual Dysfunction in Men. Curr Sex Health Rep 10, 158–168 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11930-018-0160-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11930-018-0160-7

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