The 4 common medicines that ‘increase your chance of erectile dysfunction’ – are you at risk?
THOUGH it might leave you feeling deflated, trouble getting an erection is usually just caused by the stress of expectation or having a few too many drinks.
Most men will experience it at some point or another and it’s usually nothing to worry about.
If you’re quite often unable to get an erection or can’t keep one for long enough to be intimate, then you might be suffering from erectile dysfunction (ED).
It can feel embarrassing to speak about but the condition is in fact extremely common.
Dr Donald Grant, GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy says: “Erectile dysfunction affects millions of men around the world.
“Overall, it is estimated that around 50 per cent of men between the ages of 40 and 70 will experience ED at some point.
“That’s why locating potential causes is vital.”
ED may be caused by health conditions such as high blood pressure and cholesterol or diabetes, as well as depression and anxiety.
But sometimes, the culprit may in fact be inside your medicine cabinet.
“Medication can play a massive role in causing this limiting condition,” Dr Grant explained.
This can include drugs geared towards treating specific conditions, or pills as common as painkillers and anti-histamines.
Here are four medicines that could increase your risk of ED.
1. Beta Blockers
Beta blockers are drugs that lower blood pressure.
“Blood pressure medications, also known as antihypertensives or beta blockers, list erectile dysfunction as a common side effect for many medications – including popular treatments such as atenolol and propranolol,” Dr Grant says.
“These medications can lower testosterone while also impacting blood flow – both are requirements for achieving and maintaining a healthy erection.”
Don’t stop taking the drugs if you’re experiencing problems with ED, but you can speak to your GP about it if it’s bothering you.
2. Antidepressants
Medications to treat depression often list reduced sex drive and sexual dysfunction as a side effect.
According to Dr Grant: “Popular antidepressants such as Citalopram, Sertraline and Fluoxetine could also be contributing to men’s ED risk.
“Antidepressants have a direct impact on hormones, increasing serotonin which can influence testosterone and dopamine levels – affecting libido and the ability to become sexually stimulated.
“It’s often listed as a side effect of antidepressant medication.
“However, it’s important to stay in dialogue with your GP to assess the best treatments available.”
3. Painkillers
A common class of painkillers called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be another cause of ED, according to Dr Grant.
“NSAIDs are some of the most commonly used medications, with Aspirin and Ibuprofen falling under this category,” the GP says.
“Erectile dysfunction is a potential side effect as these tablets can negatively impact blood flow and the ability to maintain erections.
“While these tablets are available over-the-counter, managing intake and abiding by recommended dosages is so important.”
The GP also recommends taking a look at potential side effects of the drugs on their leaflets before taking.
4. Antihistamines
At certain times of the year when pollen levels reach their peak, many people will pop an antihistamine to cope with allergy symptoms.
They’re also used to relieve hives, conjunctivitis and reactions to insect bites or stings.
They work by blocking the effects of a substance called histamine in your body.
Histamine is normally released when your body detects something harmful, such as an infection, helping protect the body by causing blood vessels to expand and the skin to swell.
What is erectile dysfunction?
ERECTILE dysfunction - also known as impotence - is very common, especially in men over 40.
Erectile dysfunction is when you are either:
- Unable to get an erection
- Unable to keep an erection for long enough to have sex
Depending on the cause, you may still be able to get an erection at other times, such as when you wake up.
Sometimes you might also have low sex drive.
It’s not usually the sign of something serious but you should speak to a GP about it, especially if it’s causing you distress.
Possible causes include stress, tiredness, having too much booze, as well as some medicines.
But if your ED is persistent, it might be caused by:
- High blood pressure or high cholesterol
- Diabetes
- Depression or anxiety
- Hormone problems
In people with allergies, histamines can cause uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous reactions.
But the substance can also play a role in erections, Dr Grant says.
“Histamine is crucial for developing an erection as the chemical helps dilute blood vessels, improving blood flow and allowing men to become erect.
“Therefore, it’s no surprise to learn that antihistamines can drastically increase men’s risk of developing ED.
“It highlights the importance of monitoring dosage and speaking openly with medical professionals about the harmful side effects common medications could have on an individual basis.”
Tips to deal with ED
“Overall, it’s intriguing to uncover so many over-the-counter medications that can escalate men’s ED risk,” Dr Grant concludes.
But maintaining a healthy lifestyle and making sure you’re not over consuming these medicines can help protect you against this common condition.
Having regular GP visits and check-ups is also key to preventing and treating ED, the GP adds.
“Aside from medication, I recommend incorporating foods into your diet that boost blood flow – this includes apples, walnuts and dark leafy greens.
“I also suggest managing a healthy alcohol intake as drinking can play a massive role in the development of erectile dysfunction.”
What are the physical causes of erectile dysfunction?
There are four main types of physical condition that can cause impotence in men:
- Vasculogenic disorders such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes affect the flow of blood to your penis and cause erectile dysfunction.
- Neurogenic conditions, which affect the nerves and include disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis, are also responsible.
- A hormonal disorder, affecting your hormones, is another example of a physical problem that can lead to impotence.
- An anatomical condition is something that affects the tissue or structure of the penis and is the fourth physical cause. Old age is also commonly associated with impotence.