CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (WVIR) - A new study led by Dr. Anita H. Clayton, a psychiatrist from UVA Health, reveals that nearly 70% of patients with major depressive disorder experience sexual dysfunction. This issue is a significant factor in patients discontinuing their medications.
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Dr. Clayton indicated that when sexual dysfunction persists, even after an individual's depression has improved, it can lead to a decrease in quality of life and motivation to continue treatment.
The research explored the effects of lumateperone, an atypical antipsychotic, as an add-on therapy for those experiencing treatment-resistant depression. The study involved 480 participants who were given either lumateperone or a placebo, in addition to their standard antidepressant. Results showed that patients taking lumateperone experienced improvements in mood, sexual desire, and arousal, with over 25% reporting a return to normal sexual function. Women reported more significant improvements than men.
Dr. Clayton noted that for women, every measured domain of sexual function was statistically better in those receiving lumateperone compared to the placebo group, while improvements in men were noted in two areas.
The findings may provide a new treatment option for approximately 21 million American adults living with major depression.