Decreased Libido

Libido is the desire to engage in sexual activity.  Decreased libido, or reduced sex drive, is a form of sexual dysfunction that is usually not related to ED.  About 5 percent of men have a reduced sexual interest or desire, a condition that increases with age. 

Causes of decreased libido
Decreased libido frequently accompanies other sexual disorders.  Although most men with erectile dysfunction do not complain of decreased libido, after time, failure can lead to reduced sex drive in some men. Men who have other causes of decreased libido also often have trouble achieving erections.

Common causes of low libido include:

1. medications (SSRI antidepressants; medications that reduce testosterone levels, such as those taken for prostate cancer)
2. excessive alcohol use or recreational drug use
3. excessive fatigue
4. systemic illness (such as chronic lung, heart, kidney and liver failure, cancer)
5. low testosterone
6. depression
7. relationship problems

Treatment of decreased libido
As is the case with ED, treatment of decreased libido depends on the cause of the condition. For some men, adopting a healthier lifestyle, such as exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, reducing stress, and/or limiting alcohol, can help resolve the problem.

Other treatment options may include switching medications, treating an underlying condition, testosterone replacement hormone therapy if testosterone levels are consistently low, or counseling.

Editors:
Glenn Cunningham, MD
Alvin M. Matsumoto, MD

June 2010