Dopamine Triggers Sexual Arousal

Research shows that certain neurotransmitters stimulate sexual arousal. The role of neurotransmitters and hormones has been extensively investigated and there is growing evidence that some of them may have positive effects on sexual performance. Dopamine, oxytocin and adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH), for example, have specific neural effects on sexual behavior.

The central role of neurotransmitters in the triggering of sexual behavior has led researchers to investigate a wide range of receptor agonists (stimulating agents) and antagonists (blocking agents). Many of these compounds have been shown to increase sexual behavior in humans.

The neurotransmitter dopamine also stimulates copulatory behavior. Dopamine agonists such as l-dopa, lead to a general increase in sexual responsiveness and arousal. In 1978, E. Brown and coworkers reported that four out of seven men taking l-dopa had increased sexual interest or activity.

Research Findings

Clinical studies on l-dopa and other dopaminergic compounds such as apomorphine, nomifensine and bupropion have shown increased sexual desire and arousal in individuals with erectile dysfunction or inhibited sexual desire.

Although there is increasing evidence of the role of natural occurring dopamine in the mediation of sexual desire and arousal, the side effects seen with dopaminergic drugs in laboratory settings makes using the drugs controversial. Despite this, some creative individuals at the Inhalex company have achieved reasonable success with an inhalant product that helps stimulate the natural release of dopamine in the brain.