Valens asked
Does metronidazole decrease libido/sex desire? I started taking metronidazole for Tricomonas intestinalis on Friday. On Sunday, I was going to have sex with my wife but my penis failed to erect. I have finished the dose yesterday on Thursday. But from that time till now I'm not able to do sexual intercourse with my wife. I wonder to know if metronidazole can contribute to this condition. What is the time will be taken by my body to full eliminate metronidazole and its metabolites from the body?
Answer
Flagyl (metronidazole) is an anti-bacterial and anti-protozoal agent used for the treatment of many different indications including pneumonia, respiratory infections, intra-abdominal infections and bacterial vaginosis. While typically well tolerated, it is associated with a various side effects, one of which is sexual dysfunction and libido decrease.
Metronidazole - Sexual Dysfunction
The incidence of sexual side effects isn't great, but have nevertheless been reported. Reported side effected include:
- Libido decrease
- Dyspareunia (painful intercourse)
- Vaginitis
- Delayed ejaculation
- Anorgasmia (absence of orgasm)
The incidence rate appears to be between 1% and 5% for the above adverse effects. If you do experience any side effects on metronidazole, they should resolve within a few days. Metronidazole has a half life of about 8 hours and should be completely eliminated from the body in 2 to 3 days.
