Acute PGAD-Like Genital Arousal in a 59-Year-Old Woman After Duloxetine Withdrawal: A 36-Month Follow-Up Case Report

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Authors: Nathan JACOBS, Laurie Ferret, Vassili Fague, Yves Borghesi, Julie Fulcrand, Antoine Lemaire
Cited by: 0
References: 7

Abstract

We report the case of a 59-year-old woman who experienced an acute episode of genital arousal symptoms consistent with Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder/Genito-Pelvic Dysesthesia (PGAD/GPD), but not fulfilling the duration criterion. The patient had several comorbidities known to be associated risk factors for PGAD/GPD. The most plausible contributing factor was the recent self-initiated cessation of duloxetine, a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) prescribed for a mixed anxiety-depressive disorder. She was managed with rapid multidisciplinary assessment and short-term intravenous clorazepate and amitriptyline, together with analgesics, while the episode remained self-limited and resolved spontaneously within 5 hours after admission. This case aims to raise awareness among clinicians about acute PGAD-like genital arousal episodes potentially associated with antidepressant withdrawal, the need to carefully review medication histories, and the high level of distress and even suicidality that may accompany these symptoms.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Sexual function and dysfunction studies Psychosomatic Disorders and Their Treatments Electroconvulsive Therapy Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Current Therapeutic Research
Volume
104
Pages
100823–100823
Publication date
30 January 2026
Language
EN