I think I mentioned this in a post on another thread; anti-depressent libido-dampening effect seems to vary significantly based on the drug chosen, the dosage, and the individual taking it. In my case, my W is taking Prozac, and her drive is essentially zero (which to be honest is not that far of a drop compared to much of our marriage). I'm taking Effexor at 75 mg; it's reduced but certainly not eliminated my drive/arousal. That's the "physical" component of sex drive. As to the "mental/emotional" component, I really can't speak to my wife's experience other than her depression is significantly improved; for my part, there's not too much difference in this aspect. So, in the end I still climb the wall, I can just get back down somewhat faster and don't get as sore. I guess what I'm saying (although you probably already know this) is don't disappoint yourself by thinking that chemically beating back the "physical" component will make the hurt all go away, because it won't. Yes, it's moderately more tolerable, but at least for me that's as far as it goes.
Johanna, I would add that if your meds don't start doing what you want, once you've validated your expectations, don't be shy about asking your Dr. about changing dosage or meds. Our one son is being treated for anxiety (vice depression), but we went through 3-4 drugs before we found one that worked, and we're still tweaking the dosage to get the balance just right. So weigh the across-the-board impacts and do what's best for you; while the potential side effects of any one of these meds makes for interesting reading, if you're not experiencing them, don't worry about them. Just don't get complacent. I hope this helps.
HERE is Edward Bear, coming downstairs now, bump, bump, bump, on the back of his head, behind Christopher Robin...sometimes he feels that there really is another way [of coming downstairs], if only he could stop bumping for a moment and think of it.
