Abstract
Background: Although sexual dysfunction is a common problem among methamphetamine (MA) abusers, the prevalence and features of this disorder are not well known.
Objectives: To evaluate sexual dysfunction in patients during MA abuse and withdrawal.
Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted during March 2012 to April 2013. Ninety three subjects were studied within three groups. Group 1and 2 consisted of participants who were abused MA for less than and more than 1 month, respectively. Participants in group 3 were in first month of MA withdrawal. All of the subjects evaluated with the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV disorders (SCID-IV) and the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5).
Results: Mean age of the patients was 25.86 ± 9.10, 28.96 ± 8.10 and 29.96 ± 9.30 year in group 1, 2 and 3, respectively (p = 0.09). Mean IIEF-5 scores was 22.12 ± 2.70, 16.43 ± 3.10 and 12.86 ± 6.30 in group 1, 2 and 3, respectively. There was significant difference in mean IIEF-5 scores between study groups (p = 0.02).
Conclusion: Although MA can increase libido and sexual excitement in short-term usage, but may induce sexual dysfunction in long-term abuse and leading severe sexual dysfunction during withdrawal.
Declaration of interest
The authors report no conflict of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.