Low sex drive (loss of libido)
Low sex drive is a reduced interest in sexual activity. It can be influenced by stress, hormonal changes, mental health conditions, medication, or relationship factors.
If these symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.
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Medicines commonly prescribed for Low sex drive (loss of libido)
For informational purposes only. Always consult a doctor before taking any medication.
Dosage form: TABLET, 10 mgActive substance: tadalafilManufacturer: Gp Pharm S.A.Prescription requiredDosage form: TABLET, 20 mgActive substance: tadalafilManufacturer: Gp Pharm S.A.Prescription requiredDosage form: TABLET, 5 mgActive substance: tadalafilManufacturer: Gp Pharm S.A.Prescription required
There are many possible reasons for having a low sex drive (loss of libido). Treating the cause should help increase your sex drive.
Causes of a low sex drive
Some of the main causes of a low sex drive include:
- relationship problems
- stress, anxiety or depression
- sexual problems like erectile dysfunction or vaginal dryness
- pregnancy and having a baby – your hormone levels change when you're pregnant, and looking after a baby can be stressful and tiring
- lower hormone levels as you get older, particularly during the menopause
- taking certain medicines, such as medicine for high blood pressure or antidepressants
- using hormonal contraception like the pill, patch or implant
- drinking too much alcohol
Some long-term conditions can also affect your sex drive, such as heart disease, diabetes, an underactive thyroid or cancer.
See a GP if:
- you're worried about your low sex drive
- you're taking a medicine or using hormonal contraception and you think it may be affecting your sex drive
- your sex drive does not return to normal after pregnancy
Treatments for a low sex drive
Treatment for a low sex drive depends on what's causing it.
A GP can advise you about help you can get and any treatments that might improve your sex drive.
Cause Possible treatments
| Relationship problems | Relationship counselling
| Sexual problems like vaginal dryness or erectile dysfunction | Medicines to treat the problem, such as vaginal lubricants or medicines to help you get an erection
| Menopause | Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
| Mental health problems like depression | Antidepressants or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
| Medicine, contraception and health conditions | Changing to a different medicine or type of contraception, or discussing treatment options if you have a health condition
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