Sex Drive (excessive)

Table of Contents

Other names

Hypersexuality
Increased libido
Compulsive sexual behavior

Synopsis

Excessive sex drive—also known as hypersexuality or compulsive sexual behavior—involves persistent, intense sexual urges or behaviors that may interfere with daily life, relationships, or emotional well-being. While a healthy libido varies between individuals, excessive drive can be driven by hormonal imbalances, psychological distress, neurological disorders, or substance use. It may be episodic or chronic, and is sometimes a symptom of broader conditions like bipolar disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). In some cases, it’s triggered by certain medications or hormonal shifts. The key distinction is whether the behavior feels out of control, causes distress, or leads to negative consequences.

Types:

  • Primary hypersexuality: Rooted in neurochemical or hormonal imbalance

  • Secondary hypersexuality: Linked to another condition (e.g., mania, drug side effect)

  • Compulsive sexual behavior disorder: Recognized by WHO, involves repetitive sexual behaviors and lack of control

  • Situational hypersexuality: Temporary spike due to stress, new relationships, or stimulant use

Common Causes:

  • High testosterone or dopamine activity

  • Mania (bipolar disorder), ADHD, or OCD

  • Substance use (e.g., cocaine, alcohol, stimulants)

  • Certain medications (e.g., dopamine agonists used in Parkinson’s)

  • Emotional trauma or anxiety

  • Lack of emotional intimacy or unmet psychological needs

Severity Causes:

  • Interference with relationships, work, or social functioning

  • Risk-taking or unsafe sexual behavior

  • Coexisting mental health conditions

  • Guilt, shame, or distress related to behavior

  • Inability to reduce or control urges despite consequences

When to See a Doctor:

  • Behavior feels compulsive, distressing, or uncontrollable

  • Significant impact on mental health or daily life

  • Associated with risky behavior, substance abuse, or relationship issues

  • New onset after starting medication or with other mood symptoms

  • Persistent guilt, anxiety, or depression following sexual activity

Natural Remedies

Ashwagandha: An adaptogenic herb that helps balance cortisol and testosterone levels. May reduce excessive arousal driven by stress or overstimulation.

Magnesium: Calms the nervous system and may reduce dopamine-related impulsivity. Often helpful for balancing mood and controlling compulsive behavior.

GABA: A calming neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and impulse control. May help reduce hyperarousal and anxiety-driven sexual thoughts.

Vitamin B6: Supports neurotransmitter balance and may help regulate mood, especially in cases where hypersexuality is linked to PMS, stress, or mood disorders.

Chamomile: Promotes calm and stress reduction, which may indirectly reduce excessive sexual urges tied to emotional or nervous system imbalances.

Avoid stimulants and alcohol: These can heighten arousal and lower inhibition, exacerbating compulsive tendencies.

Mindfulness and meditation: Help retrain thought patterns, increase awareness, and improve impulse control.

Physical activity: Redirects excess energy and regulates mood-enhancing neurochemicals that may contribute to heightened libido.

Ingredients

These raw ingredients are often used in alternative medicine to treat this condition.

ashwagandha
chamomile
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
magnesium
zinc
vitamin B6