Depression and sexual dysfunction among HIV-positive and HIV-negative men who have sex with men: mediation by use of antidepressants and recreational stimulants

Arch Sex Behav. 2015 Feb;44(2):399-409. doi: 10.1007/s10508-014-0279-1. Epub 2014 Mar 27.

Abstract

Erectile dysfunction and other forms of sexual dysfunction are highly prevalent among HIV+ men who have sex with men (MSM). Research has not previously identified the mechanisms by which depression may be associated with sexual dysfunction among HIV-positive and HIV-seronegative (HIV-negative) MSM. The present study examined the role of antidepressant use, stimulant use, and smoking as mediators of the relation between depression and sexual dysfunction among HIV-positive and HIV-negative MSM. Participants enrolled in the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study, an ongoing prospective study of the natural and treated histories of HIV infection among MSM in the United States, completed a modified version of the International Index of Erectile Function for MSM. The study sample included 1,363 participants, with 619 HIV-positive men and 744 HIV-negative men. A structural equation model examined depression as a predictor of subsequent sexual dysfunction, mediated by antidepressant use, stimulant use, and smoking. Depression predicted subsequent sexual function among both HIV-negative and HIV-positive MSM. This effect appeared to be both a direct effect and an indirect effect via antidepressant use. Findings suggest that antidepressant medication use may partially explain sexual dysfunction among MSM.

Publication types

  • Multicenter Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Cohort Studies
  • Depression / drug therapy*
  • Erectile Dysfunction / drug therapy*
  • Female
  • HIV Seronegativity*
  • HIV Seropositivity*
  • Homosexuality, Male / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Illicit Drugs*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Negotiating
  • Prevalence
  • Prospective Studies
  • Smoking
  • United States

Substances

  • Antidepressive Agents
  • Illicit Drugs