Selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, are medications that may help relieve symptoms of depression. Although there are several drugs in this category, all are accompanied by similar side effects, according to the Mayo Clinic. These include nausea, headache, agitation and insomnia. SSRIs may also cause decreased libido in some people, as well as problems maintaining an erection for men and, for both sexes, difficulty experiencing orgasm. Maca is a traditional herbal remedy that may relieve some of the sexual side effects of SSRIs. Consult your doctor to determine if taking maca is appropriate for you.
SSRIs
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter made in several parts of your brain. It modifies some important functions, such as mood, sleep patterns and appetite. SSRIs inhibit reabsorption of serotonin by nerve cells, making the neurotransmitter remain in the junction between nerves, or synapse, for a longer time. The result is often an improvement in mood. Although they are considered effective drugs, SSRIs cause sexual side effects in some people. Maca is a natural treatment that may decrease some of these effects, increasing libido and improving sexual function.
Maca
Maca, or Lepidium meyenii, is a native South American plant that grows at high elevations and belongs to the same family as broccoli and cabbage. Maca root has been used by native South Americans for hundreds of years as a remedy for several sexual complaints, including infertility, symptoms of menopause and poor libido and sexual performance. The root contains several natural compounds that may be responsible for its effects. Although its mechanism is not well-understood, it does not involve changes in any of the sex hormones, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.
Maca Research
A number of laboratory and clinical studies have examined the potential for maca to improve sexual performance. For example, in a study published in "Urology" in 2000, laboratory animals that consumed maca extract had enhanced sexual function compared to another group given a placebo. In a clinical trial published in "CNS Neuroscience and Therapeutics" in 2008, human subjects with SSRI-induced sexual problems consumed either maca or a placebo. In this study, taking maca resulted in significant improvement in both sexual function and libido. These and other studies suggest that maca may be helpful in relieving some of these problems.
Recommendations and Precautions
Maca is available from most health food stores in capsules or tablets. The usual dose is 450 mg, three times daily. Maca is generally considered safe and without any significant side effects. However, do not take maca if you are pregnant or breastfeeding since its safety in these situations has not been tested. Discuss use of maca with your health-care provider to be certain it is an appropriate choice for you.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Maca
- MacaExtract.net: Maca Extract Supplement Benefit, Dosage, Side Effects, Review of Safety, Risk and Danger
- "Urology"; Effect of a Lipidic Extract from Lepidum Meyenii on Sexual Behavior in Mice and Rats; B. Zheng et al.; April 2000
- "CNS Neuroscience and Therapeutics"; A Double-Blind, Randomized, Pilot Dose-Finding Study of Maca Root for the Management of SSRI-induced Sexual Dysfunction; C. Dording et al.; August 2008
- Drugs.com: Maca
Member Comments