"Sexual dysfunction is one of the most common and bothersome side effects patients with depression struggle with when prescribed an SSRI," said lead study investigator, Dr. Anita Clayton, chair, Department of Psychiatry & Neurobehavioral Sciences, University of Virginia School of Medicine. "We designed the study to specifically look at these troublesome side effects. Changing to a medication with potentially fewer sexual side effects, while not losing progress in treating depression, provides an important option for patients with depression."