Post-SSRI Sexual Dysfunction: A Bioelectric Mechanism? (2019)
Post-SSRI Sexual Dysfunction: A Bioelectric Mechanism? David Healy , Joshua LaPalme , and Michael Levin Published Online: 12 Dec 2019 https://doi.org/10.1089/bioe.2019.0010 Abstract Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) drugs, targeting serotonin transport, are widely used. A puzzling and biomedically important phenomenon concerns the persistent sexual dysfunction following SSRI use seen in some patients. What could be the mechanism of a persistent physiological state brought on by a transient exposure to serotonin transport blockers? In this study, we briefly review the clinical facts concerning this side effect of serotonin reuptake inhibitors and suggest a possible mechanism. Bioelectric circuits (among neural or non-neural cells) could persistently maintain alterations of bioelectric cell properties (resting potential), resulting in long-term changes in electrophysiology and signaling. We present new data revealing this phenomenon in planarian flatworms, in w...