Buspirone Experiences?

[jc2c]

So, I'm dealing with anorgasmia. My shrink suggested I switch from occasionally using Klonopin to trying Buspar (aka buspirone) because benzos can contribute to sexual dysfunction and Buspar may help. I know it's often used for SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction but I don't take SSRIs. I've also read it can actually cause anorgasmia in some people (several case reports on Reddit and social media). It also takes a few weeks to start working for anxiety so it'd be a long trial. I'm debating if it's worth it because some reported the side effects linger for some time after discontinuation. Anyone tried it or have any theoretical insights? I found a slideshow from a doctor where he mentions it for SSRI patients but not for non-SSRI.

 

[BadassBlues]

So, I'm dealing with anorgasmia. My shrink suggested I switch from occasionally using Klonopin to trying Buspar (aka buspirone) because benzos can contribute to sexual dysfunction and Buspar may help. I know it's often used for SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction but I don't take SSRIs. I've also read it can actually cause anorgasmia in some people (several case reports on Reddit and social media). It also takes a few weeks to start working for anxiety so it'd be a long trial. I'm debating if it's worth it because some reported the side effects linger for some time after discontinuation. Anyone tried it or have any theoretical insights? I found a slideshow from a doctor where he mentions it for SSRI patients but not for non-SSRI.

"It's the best of drugs, it's the worst of drugs"

I thought since this reply will be long, similar to a novel, that I would start out by quoting one. I have been dealing with similar issues for years. The quote above is regarding Benzo's. Anyone who suffers from anxiety can relate to the misery it causes. Benzodiazepines are a wonder drug for anxiety sufferers. My personal favorite is Xanax. Due to anxiety issues, I also suffer from occasional insomnia. I pop a Xanax and sleep like a baby. The downside is the next day when I am a walking zombie with no emotional attachments. Sex "sounds" good, I'm relaxed... but too relaxed to be able to have an orgasm. Damn you Xanax...

Before going any further, to answer your question, yes... I have tried Buspirone, with mixed results. If you are going to use it for anxiety, be prepared that it is different than benzos. Benzodiazepines exert their effects on GABA and are immediate. Buspirone affects the serotonin 5-HT1A receptor, similar to SSRI's in the mechanism of action. For anxiety issues, buspirone needs to be taken for 1-2 weeks to see any real results. I had some success taking at as needed for one offs. Unfortunately for me however, it ended up having the same effect on orgasm as it made me too passive. Others may have different results based on their own chemistry. You can try it and see if it works for you.

I don't have any depression issues, just anxiety. The double-edged sword to all of this is anxiety can also cause delayed orgasm and anorgasmia. So, you're damned if you do and damned if you don't.

I personally do not respond well to things that affect my serotonin. I have tried 5HTP, anti-depressants and other things and they all make me feel whacked out. I have had the best results from selegeline, which has an effect on dopamine reuptake. At low doses it only affects the MAO-B enzyme and results in a higher dopamine retention. It has cured my delayed orgasm problem for the most part, but I do still have anxiety issues, and they rear their ugly heads from time to time.

There is a delicate balance between the calm and peacefulness required for sex to be enjoyable, and the jagged edge required to orgasm. That is mainly true for men, women are a bit different in that regard. All of the neurotransmitters are required to be balanced and in play for things to work smoothly. Oxytocin to create a bond, serotonin for that peaceful easy feeling, dopamine for the lust, norepinephrine for the orgasm. When it's out of balance is when things go sideways. The supplements that aid in orgasm can also cause horrible anxiety because you're getting the norepinephrine in the front of the line. Yohimbe is a great supplement for some, but for anxiety sufferers it's like pouring gas on a fire. I have had some success with it, but it takes working through heart palpitations and shortness of breath to get to the finish line... not very sexy.

I feel your pain my friend.