Epilepsy itself, as well as the medications used to treat it, can indeed impact your sexual function and drive. This is a reasonably common concern, and it’s understandable that it could affect the dynamics of your relationship. Many antiepileptic drugs can influence sex drive, including Lamictal (lamotrigine), Fycompa (perampanel), and Piracetam, though the degree and nature of impact vary between individuals. These medications can alter neurotransmitter levels, affect hormone balance, or directly impact the nervous system, all of which can reduce libido or alter sexual response. It’s crucial to discuss this side effect openly with your healthcare provider, as they can help tailor your treatment plan to better suit your needs. They may consider adjusting your medication dosages or switching to a different medication that might have a lesser impact on your sexual health. Bear in mind, modifying or switching medications should always be guided by a healthcare professional, as maintaining seizure control is the primary concern. It also may help to evaluate other factors such as stress, mental health, or physical fitness, as they can further contribute to reduced sexual desire. It’s good practice to incorporate a holistic approach to care, which might include speaking with a therapist or counselor familiar with epilepsy-related issues to address any psychological barriers. In the meantime, fostering open communication with your partner can provide mutual support and strengthen your relationship.
Hi Zuzana, You’ve raised a very important and sensitive concern and we are here to help. Many people with epilepsy experience similar challenges, and it’s not your fault. Your issues might be due to effect of epilepsy or effect if medicines (but the medicines that you’re taking have less chances of causing decreased libido, but some effects have been seen). This is what you can do-
1. Discuss with your Neurologist: Don’t stop or change medicines on your own. The doctor can review whether the doses can be adjusted or if one of them can be switched to another option less likely to affect libido.
2. Get done these tests- CBC, FT3, FT4, TSH, Estrogen, Progesterone, Prolactin, Testosterone. Review with the reports.
3. Psychological & Relationship Support: Even if attraction and feelings are strong, anxiety about seizures or self-image can affect intimacy. Counseling (psychosexual therapy or couples therapy) can help both you and your partner navigate this together.
4. Lifestyle Support: Regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep can naturally improve libido.
5. What you’re experiencing is common and reversible. With the right medication balance and support, most people regain normal sexual desire. Please don’t blame yourself; this is a known medical side effect, and your concern is absolutely valid.
Feel free to reach out again.
Regards, Dr. Nirav Jain MBBS, DNB D.Fam.Med
Hello dear See there are very less chances that these medicines can affect sexual activity But some cases have been reported with loss of libido and diminishing sexual health I suggest you to please consult with your concerned physician along with gynaecologist. May be there can be requirement of replacement of medication with less fatal medication So have in person opinion with gynaecologist and neurologist for better clarity Regards
Hello Zuzana By going through your history and evaluation of your history status I must say that You’re right that some medications for epilepsy, like Lamictal and Fycompa, can impact libido and sexual function. It’s not uncommon for people on these medications to experience changes in their sexual desire or performance.
Here is some advice for you as follows -
- Talk to Your Doctor: It’s important to discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider who has prescribed you medication as he/she can help assess whether your current medications are contributing to your low libido and explore possible alternatives or adjustments. - Open Communication with Your Partner: Sharing your feelings with your partner can help both of you understand the situation better. It’s great that you have a strong emotional connection, and being open about your struggles can strengthen that bond. - Explore Other Factors: Sometimes, stress, anxiety, or even lifestyle factors can also play a role in sexual desire. It might be helpful to look at those aspects too.
Hope you will get better results soon .
Thank you
Some anti-seizure medicines, including Lamictal and Fycompa, can reduce sexual desire by affecting brain neurotransmitters and hormone balance, so what you’re experiencing is unfortunately not uncommon. This does not mean something is wrong with you or your relationship; it’s a medication-related side effect that can often be improved by adjusting doses or switching medications under medical guidance. Please speak with your neurologist and consider a referral to a sexual health specialist or psychosexual therapist, who can help tailor treatment without risking seizure control.
