Subject:
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DCN 2: Functional Neurogenomics UMCN 3.2: Cognitive neurosciences |
Organization:
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Psychoneuropharmacology Anatomy |
Journal title:
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Journal of Sexual Medicine
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Abstract:
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INTRODUCTION: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) differ in the severity of induced ejaculation delay. Various studies indicate that oxytocin is involved in sexual behavior. AIM: To review and evaluate the involvement of oxytocin in SSRI-induced ejaculation delay. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Oxytocine release, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) neurotransmission, and desensitization of 5-HT(1A) receptors. METHODS: A review and critical analysis of animal studies investigating the interaction of serotonergic and oxytocinergic neurotransmission in relation to the ejaculation process. RESULTS: Although acute treatment with the SSRIs fluoxetine and paroxetine immediately causes increased serotonin levels, delayed ejaculation does not occur. The increased serotonin levels induce oxytocin release via activation of 5-HT(1A) receptors, and this might compensate for the inhibitory actions of serotonin on sexual behavior. Chronic treatment with fluoxetine and paroxetine desensitizes 5-HT(1A) receptors on oxytocin neurons, and that might in part determine the onset of delayed ejaculation. Desensitization of 5-HT(1A) receptors is less strong following chronic treatment with the SSRIs fluvoxamine or citalopram, which may attenuate the degree of delayed ejaculation. CONCLUSIONS: Preliminary data suggest that the severity of chronic SSRI treatment-induced delayed ejaculation and the differences between the various SSRIs in inducing ejaculation delay is related to gradual desensitization of 5-HT(1A) receptors on oxytocin neurons.
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