A comparative study of sexual dysfunction in clinically stable schizophrenic patients receiving trifluoperazine, risperidone, and olanzapine.

Background: Sexual dysfunction (SD) is a common occurrence in Schizophrenia on antipsychotics, both typical and atypical. Indian studies in this regard are not many in number. Aims and Objectives: The aims of this study were to investigate SD in Schizophrenics on Trifluoperazine, Risperidone, and Olanzapine and also to evaluate the incidence of SD in relation to the duration of illness, duration of treatment, and dosage of the drugs in each group of subjects. Materials and Methods: In stable schizophrenic patients, on Trifluoperazine (n=40), Risperidone (n=40), and Olanzapine (n=40), SD was assessed using Arizona sexual experience scale. Demographic profile and duration of illness, duration of treatment and drug dosage were evaluated in each group. Comparisons were made between the incidence of SD between patients taking typical and atypical antipsychotics. Furthermore, distribution of SD with duration of illness, duration of treatment and dose of drugs were assessed in each group of subjects (taking Trifluoperazine, Risperidone, or Olanzapine). Results: (1) Majority of the subjects were males (66.67%) and above 30 years (55%). (2) Incidence of SD was higher with typical antipsychotics (statistically insignificant). (3) Increased duration of treatment and dose of drugs was associated with higher incidence of SD. Patients treated with Risperidone for longer duration and with Trifluoperazine with higher dose had higher incidence of SD (P<0.05). Conclusion: Incidence of SD is higher in older age groups and with typical Antipsychotics. Increased duration of illness, duration of treatment and higher drug doses, all are associated with higher incidence of SD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]