Protocol · Sexual Health
Antidepressant-Induced Sexual Dysfunction Support Protocol
Maca and Saffron are the core of this stack, with 5 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Antidepressant-Induced Sexual Dysfunction Support.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
7 supplements · none graded yet · 4 confirmed studies
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | |||||
| Maca | Amount listed: 1.5–3 g daily | Peruvian root that may improve libido and sexual function; studied specifically for SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction
| Not graded yet | ||
Confirmed studies for Maca (titles as PubMed lists them) | |||||
| Saffron | Amount listed: 30 mg daily | May improve sexual function in both men and women; studied specifically for SSRI-induced dysfunction | Not graded yet | ||
Confirmed studies for Saffron (titles as PubMed lists them) | |||||
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | |||||
| L-Arginine | Amount listed: 3–6 g daily | Nitric oxide precursor; may improve blood flow and arousal, particularly in women | Not graded yet | ||
| Ginkgo Biloba | Amount listed: 120–240 mg standardized extract daily | Improves blood flow; some evidence for improving antidepressant-related sexual dysfunction
| Not graded yet | ||
Confirmed studies for Ginkgo Biloba (titles as PubMed lists them) | |||||
| Vitamin B6 (P5P) | Amount listed: 50–100 mg daily (as P5P for better absorption) | Cofactor in dopamine synthesis; may help balance neurotransmitters affected by antidepressants | Not graded yet | ||
| Zinc | Amount listed: 15–30 mg daily | Supports testosterone production and sexual function; deficiency impairs libido | Not graded yet | ||
| Ashwagandha | Amount listed: 300–600 mg standardized extract daily | Adaptogen that may support libido and sexual function; may help with stress-related dysfunction | Not graded yet | ||
Shop the evidence-backed picks
Support alongside medical care. These supplements are not a treatment for Antidepressant-Induced Sexual Dysfunction. If you are being treated for it, talk to your clinician before adding one: supplements can interact with medicines.
The collection holds the supplements we grade A or B for its theme, in third-party tested products where the catalog has them. It opens in our Fullscript store. You can look through it without signing in; Fullscript asks for a free account to order.
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How this protocol works
In plain language
Antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction (AISD) is a very common side effect of antidepressants, particularly SSRIs and SNRIs. It affects 30-70% of patients and includes decreased libido, arousal difficulties, and delayed or absent orgasm. These effects occur because serotonin (which is increased by these antidepressants) can inhibit dopamine and norepinephrine pathways involved in sexual function. AISD is a leading cause of medication non-adherence, which can worsen depression.
CRITICAL: Don't stop your antidepressant without consulting your doctor - this can worsen depression and cause withdrawal symptoms. There are several medical strategies for AISD: dose reduction, drug holidays (for some medications), switching to antidepressants less likely to cause sexual dysfunction (bupropion, mirtazapine, vilazodone), or adding medications like bupropion or PDE5 inhibitors. Discuss these options with your prescriber. These supplements may provide additional support.
Maca* is a Peruvian root vegetable that has been specifically studied for SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction. Clinical trials show it can improve libido and sexual function without affecting serotonin levels or antidepressant efficacy.
Saffron* has shown benefit in randomized trials for both men and women with SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction. It may work through multiple mechanisms including effects on dopamine.
L-Arginine* is a precursor to nitric oxide, which is important for blood flow and arousal. It may be particularly helpful for arousal difficulties.
Ginkgo Biloba* improves blood flow and was initially reported to help AISD, though later controlled trials showed mixed results. Some patients do benefit.
Vitamin B6* is a cofactor in dopamine synthesis. Since dopamine is important for libido and SSRIs can reduce dopamine activity, supporting dopamine pathways may help.
Zinc* supports testosterone production and overall sexual function. Ensuring adequate zinc status may help.
Ashwagandha* is an adaptogen that has shown benefits for sexual function in both men and women, potentially through stress reduction and hormonal effects.
Expected timeline: Maca and saffron may show benefits within 4-8 weeks of consistent use. Ginkgo and L-arginine may work more quickly for blood flow issues. If supplements don't help significantly, discuss medication strategies with your prescriber.