Prevalence and correlates of sexual dysfunction among patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder on antipsyhotic medications in Maiduguri, Northeastern Nigeria

Abstract

Objectives Despite the importance of a satisfying sexual life, most patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders do not discuss sexual issue with their clinicians. The current study seeks to determine the prevalence and socio-clinical correlates of sexual dysfunction among patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders receiving typical and atypical antipsychotic medications. The second objective is to determine the frequency and correlates of specific sexual dysfunction (desire, arousal, erection/lubrication and orgasm) by gender and drug type using the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale. Methodology This cross-sectional study used standardized structured interviewer based survey to assess sexual dysfunction among patients with schizophrenia that are both sexually active and inactive at a tertiary hospital in Maiduguri from December 2020 to April 2021. Participants were also assayed for prolactin using ELISA Kit for a possible association with sexual dysfunction. Results The overall prevalence of sexual dysfunction among patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder receiving antipsychotics was 34% with patients on typical and atypical antipsychotics reporting rates of 36.8% and 24.6%, respectively. Among the typical and atypical antipsychotics, patients receiving haloperidol (40.3%) and risperidone (37.5%) reported a relatively higher frequency of sexual dysfunction compared to those receiving clozapine (18.2%). Independent correlates of sexual dysfunction were: female gender (OR = 1.89, 95% CI = 1.17-3.06; P = .010), being unmarried (OR = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.17-1.96; P = .001), pseudoparkinsonism (OR = 1.66, 95% CI = 1.02-2.69; P = .008), prolactin (OR = 2.15, 95% CI = 1.34-3.43; P = .001) and severity of illness (OR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.03-1.75; P = .030). Conclusion Sexual dysfunction is prevalent among patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder receiving either typical or atypical antipsychotics.