Can Klonopin (Clonazepam) Cause Erectile Dysfunction?
In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses whether or not Klonopin (clonazepam) can cause impotence.
My husband has been on 2mg Klonopin and he's having the side effect of no sex drive, We would like to know if he stops the Klonopin how long it could take for him to get his sex life back?
Jun 20, 2022- Klonopin can cause erectile dysfunction and other sexual side effects, though these occur relatively uncommonly and are reported in 3% or fewer of people taking the medication.
- Sexual side effects from Klonopin typically go away within a few days after stopping the medication, once it clears from your body in 3 to 7 days.
- If you've been taking Klonopin long-term, talk to your doctor before stopping it since the medication needs to be discontinued slowly rather than stopped abruptly.
Hello and thanks for reaching out! I'm sorry to hear about the problems you and your husband have been facing.
Although relatively uncommon, Klonopin (clonazepam) has been reported to cause sexual dysfunction in those who take it.
Below is a list of sexually related side effects Klonopin is reported to have (according to the prescribing information):
- Delayed ejaculation (<= 2%)
- Impotence (erectile dysfunction) (<= 3%)
- Decreased ejaculation (<=1%)
- Feeling of urinary incontinence (<=1%)
- Libido decrease (1—3%)
How Long Do Sexual Side Effects From Klonopin Last?
If you do experience any of the above side effects, they should go away within a few days after discontinuing clonazepam. It generally takes clonazepam 3-7 days to be completely cleared from the body and sexual function should return to normal after that time. I do want to note here that if you have been taking clonazepam for a long time, it should be discontinued slowly. You should discuss a plan with your doctor. What About Other Benzodiazepines? Klonopin is not the only benzodiazepine that is reported to cause sexual dysfunction. Multiple studies show this is a 'class' effect, meaning all benzodiazepines are associated with it. Other benzodiazepines include: Valium (diazepam) (diazepam)
It appears that there are several reasons behind how benzodiazepines cause sexual dysfunction. There is a mental component since benzodiazepines have sedative properties, which leads to less sexual interest and sensation. There is also a physiological component, as benzodiazepines increase the release of the neurotransmitter GABA, which has been linked to erectile dysfunction. One study reported the following:
The mechanisms of action of BZDs [benzodiazepines] to induce SD [sexual dysfunction] mainly relate to enhanced GABA receptor function which reduces penile erection.
So, if you are having sexual side effects with Klonopin, there is a very real chance this will occur with any benzodiazepine.
Final Words
Thanks again for reaching out and please contact us again with any further questions!
References & sources
Glossary — Terms in This Answer
- Clonazepam
- The generic name for the medication Klonopin, a drug used to treat anxiety and seizures.
- Erectile dysfunction
- The inability to achieve or maintain an erection during sexual activity.
- Benzodiazepines
- A class of medications that work by slowing down brain activity, commonly used to treat anxiety and sleep problems.
- Libido
- Sexual desire or interest in sexual activity.
- Neurotransmitter
- A chemical messenger in the brain that helps cells communicate with each other.
- GABA
- A neurotransmitter in the brain that has a calming effect and is targeted by benzodiazepine medications.
- Sedative properties
- The ability of a medication to produce a calming or sleep-inducing effect.
- Prescribing information
- Official documentation that lists approved uses, side effects, and safety information for a medication.
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Doctor of Pharmacy, board certified clinical pharmacist (BCPS), American Herbalist Guild, Medication Therapy Management certified
Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS, is a licensed pharmacist with more than 13 years of experience across retail pharmacy, clinical pharmacy, medication safety, pharmacy program development, and healthcare administration. He is the founder of HelloPharmacist.com, where he helps patients...
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