Taking prescription
drugs usually have some form of side effect such as drowsiness, headaches, dry
mouth, or upset stomach. Major side effects range from skin irritation to
allergic reactions and anaphylactic shock. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is
oftentimes overlooked as a possible side effect.
Erectile dysfunction
affects as many as 30 million men. ED can result in anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and
a decreased quality of life. It is important to know which drugs may cause
these side effects, and consult a healthcare professional for possible
alternatives.
ANTIDEPRESSANTS
Major depression can
cause ED and it is estimated to have affected 16 million adults in
2012. Antidepressants are also used to treat anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive
disorder, and even long-term
pain. One of the major forms of antidepressants,
called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, is comprised of the drugs Celexa,
Prozac, Zoloft, and Lexapro. It is still unclear as to how SSRIs cause erectile
dysfunction, but it is estimated that up to sixty percent of people taking them
may experience ED. Specialists suggest that it relates to the way the drugs
influence function of the neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine, and
dopamine, all of which relate to feelings of well-being.
ANTIHISTAMINES
Millions suffer from allergies, but some of the most
common drugs, such as Benadryl and Dramamine, may be causing erectile
dysfunction as well. Though it’s unclear exactly how it causes ED, personal accounts of its effects suggest that it could alter the way
men’s nervous systems react to stimulation around the penis. It also seems to
be temporary, with sensation coming back gradually after stopping use.
BENZODIAZEPINES
Anxiety is known to
cause erectile dysfunction, as increased levels of stress harm the body and
inhibit libido. Though common benzodiazepines, such as Xanax, Ativan, Valium,
and Librium, may help calm anxiety through sedative effects, they may
also end up lowering desire for sex, as well as his ability to remain erect.
BETA
BLOCKERS
High blood pressure damages blood vessels, including those in the penis,
causing ED. But beta blockers, one of the drugs most commonly prescribed drugs
to people who have high blood pressure, can also cause ED. Drugs
that fall into this category include Sectral,
Lopressor, Cogard, and Tenormin.
Just like
antidepressants, these drugs also affect neurotransmitters in the brain, specifically epinephrine (adrenaline). In this particular case, they counteract
the stimulatory effects of the molecule, dampening a person’s excitement. At
the same time, some evidence suggests beta blockers also affect areas of a
man’s nervous system that allow for erections.
H2
BLOCKERS
Also called H2-receptor
antagonists, this category of drug includes the popular heartburn options,
Zantac and Pepcid. They’re used to treat gastrointestinal disorders like
gastric ulcers, erosive esophagitis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease.
For the most part,
these cause ED when taken in high doses, and the drug Tagamet (cimetidine) is
most likely to cause problems. Along with ED and a decreased libido, they can
also lower a man’s sperm count. Though life on these drugs may seem grim within
the sexual arena, taking them is important for treating whatever disease a
doctor has prescribed them for. Also, by talking with a doctor about
alternative treatments, lowering doses, or taking supplements, taking these
drugs may help to retain sexual drive.
