250. The BIO in Biopsychosocial – Medications for Sexual Health

The BIO in Biopsychosocial – Medications for Sexual Health In this episode, Dr. Mona Gupta and Dr. Melissa Dahir join Dr. Kelly Casperson to discuss the importance of sexual health and the misconceptions surrounding it. They emphasize that sexual health is a bio-psycho-social issue and should be treated as such. The panel also addresses the black box warnings and misconceptions associated with sexual desire drugs, highlighting the benefits and considerations of these medications. They debunk the myth that alcohol is unsafe to consume while taking these drugs and discuss the positive effects of these medications on sleep. The panel also explores the sexual side effects of antidepressants and provides strategies for managing them. They delve into the use of testosterone replacement therapy and its impact on sexual health. Finally, they offer advice on navigating medications and seeking help for sexual health issues. Takeaways Sexual health is a bio-psycho-social issue that should be treated holistically. Addyi – how it works, its influence on sleep, and it’s safety profile, and it works in pre and post menopausal women. Black box warnings and misconceptions surrounding sexual desire drugs should be reevaluated, as these medications can have significant benefits for individuals. Alcohol consumption is not necessarily unsafe while taking sexual desire drugs, and the effects of these medications on sleep can be positive. The sexual side effects with SSRI’s and common psychiatric medications. Antidepressants can have sexual side effects, but there are strategies for managing these issues, such as adjusting the dosage or adding complementary medications. Testosterone replacement therapy can be an effective treatment for sexual health issues, particularly when used in conjunction with other therapies. When seeking help for sexual health issues, it is important to find a provider who is knowledgeable and supportive.    Dr. Melissa Dahir, DNP, IF has been the Midwest’s leading healthcare expert in sexual medicine and vulvar pain disorders since 2006. In 2012 the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH) named her an ISSWSH Fellow (IF) which is a top distinction in this field. She strongly believes that ongoing research is the key to advancing women’s sexual health. https://melissadahir.com/    Dr. Mona Gupta, a renowned psychiatrist with seven practices and growing in North Carolina, is a forward-thinking key opinion leader in psychiatry. Specializing in breaking down patients' problems into manageable components, she facilitates easier tackling. Dr. Gupta, a passionate advocate for women's sexual health, emphasizes its undervalued role in mental health and overall wellbeing. Dr.Gupta: https://www.guptapsychiatry.com/  https://www.facebook.com/GuptaPsych https://twitter.com/GuptaPsychiatry https://youtube.com/@guptapsychiatrywellness1740?si=Fxud1VWQj1ADCV6 https://www.tiktok.com/@guptapsychiatry1 Check out details for my retreat: https://ascendretreats.com/ Listen to my Tedx Talk: Whywe need adult sex ed   Take my NEW Adult Sex Ed Master Class: https://www.kellycaspersonmd.com/adult-sex-ed   Join my membership to get these episodes ASAP, a private facebook group to discuss and my private accountability group for your health, hormones and life support! www.kellycaspersonmd.com/membership --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kj-casperson/message