LAUSR

Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the unconventional side-effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclics (TCAs) antidepressants during long-term treatment of depression, with a special focus on emotional blunting and, in particular, on the possible changes of some features of loving relationships. Methods Two hundred outpatients (130 women and 70 men, mean age ± SD: 43.4 ± 11.1 years) were enrolled. They were suffering from mild or moderate depression, according to DSM–5 criteria, treated with one antidepressant for at least six months and involved in a long-term loving relationship. A specifically designed test, the so-called “sex, attachment, love” (SALT) questionnaire was built to assess the possible changes of the loving relationship. Results The results showed differences between the two genders, in particular women taking TCAs reported more sexual side effects than men, whereas men taking SSRIs complained a reduction of the feelings of love and attachment towards the partner. Conclusions Antidepressants seem to have a dimorphic effect on some elements of loving relationships, however these results need to be further explored. Disclosure of interest The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.