Gingko Biloba & sex

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Hi All,

Thought this might be of interest.

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TITLE: Ginkgo biloba for antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction [see

comments]

AUTHORS: Cohen AJ; Bartlik B

AUTHOR AFFILIATION: University of California, San Francisco, California, USA.

SOURCE: J Sex Marital Ther 1998 Apr-Jun;24(2):139-43

CITATION IDS: PMID: 9611693 UI: 98274627

COMMENT: Comment in: J Sex Marital Ther 1999 Jan-Mar;25(1):1-2

Comment in: J Sex Marital Ther 1999 Jan-Mar;25(1):2-5

ABSTRACT:

In an open trial ginkgo biloba, an extract derived from the leaf of the Chinese

ginkgo tree and noted for its cerebral enhancing effects, was found to be 84%

effective in treating antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction predominately

caused by selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs, N = 63).

Women (n = 33) were more responsive to the sexually enhancing effects of ginkgo

biloba than men (N = 30), with relative success rates of 91% versus 76%.

Ginkgo biloba generally had a positive effect on all 4 phases of the sexual

response cycle: desire, excitement (erection and lubrication), orgasm, and

resolution (afterglow).

This study originated from the observation that a geriatric patient on ginkgo

biloba for memory enhancement noted improved erections.

Patients exhibited sexual dysfunction secondary to a variety of antidepressant

medications including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRIs), serotonin

and nonrepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRIs) monoamine oxidase inhibitor

(MAOIs), and tricyclics.

Dosages of ginkgo biloba extract ranged from 60 mg qd to 120 mg bid (average =

209mg/d).

The common side effects were gastrointestinal disturbances, headache, and

general central nervous system activation.

The article includes a discussion of presumed pharmacologic mechanisms,

including effects on platelet activating factor, prostaglandins, peripheral

vasodilatation, and central serotonin and norepinephrine receptor factor

modulation.

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Good Health & Long Life,

Greg ,

http://www.ozemail.com.au/~gowatson

gowatson@...