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Old Jul 16, 2009, 08:12 PM
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Visioneer Visioneer is offline
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Member Since: May 2007
Posts: 269
A lot of drugs can cause issues with libido, and have strange effects on how we perceive things neurologically. Suboxone in particular is used to block the effects of opioids in addicts as a way of breaking the cycle of addiction - I don't know why your boyfriend is taking it and I won't make assumptions, I'm just talking about how the drug works. I'm not a doctor but I understand a little about how brain chemicals work, and similar feel-good chemicals to the opioids are produced by the brain naturally (which is why opiates are so addictive in the first place). It's possible that suboxone is also blocking his absorbtion of his own feel-good brain chemicals and reducing his general enjoyment of activities that would normally cause a release of those chemicals, such as sex.

What is happening is not your fault. It has nothing to do with a lack of attraction to you, so don't worry about that either. I know what it is like to be with a low-libido partner, and have also gone through libido issues my self with other drugs. It can really put a strain on your relationship, and on your self-image.

He is on this drug for a reason, his prescribing doctor knows what they are doing and stopping this particular drug could have serious consequences - there is a high risk of severe withdrawal, in some cases causing death. Please do not pressure him to go off of the drug. If he does feel that he wants to be off the drug, he needs to discuss this with his doctor and talk about a plan for tapering off of the drug, and possibly replacing it in the end. Opiates themselves can have this effect on sexual functioning:

http://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/cgi/...ract/137/8/909

Suboxone is its self half opioid, half opioid inhibitor, which is why it is used to treat addiction to opiates. It reduces the craving and "sickness" (withdrawal) that comes from not getting your fix on time, while also stopping your body from feeling the high that comes from the opiate in the first place. If your boyfriend is using Suboxone for this reason, it is really important that he continue with his treatment, or he may relapse, and right now getting better is more important than your sexual issues, as I'm sure you would agree.

He may also be using Suboxone to control pain. If this is the case, he can discuss other options with his doctor that may stop this sexual side effect.

This doesn't have to be forever. With clear communication about each other's needs, and some understanding on your part, you can get through this as a couple. It will take time and perserverance. In the mean time, I urge you to talk to a counsellor your self about the feelings you are having dealing with the situation, and discuss ways for you to get through this without feeling hurt, to be able to be a better support to him at this time. He can express his love in other ways.

I wish both of you the best of luck! Take care.
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Last edited by Visioneer; Jul 16, 2009 at 08:25 PM.