Your problems in achieving and maintaining an erection doesn’t have to be linked to stress or age. Your prescription medications or even the over-the-counter supplements you are taking may be to blame.
An article by the Cleveland Clinic expressed that: “Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common side effect of a number of prescription drugs. While these medications may treat a disease or condition, in doing so they can affect a man’s hormones, nerves or blood circulation, resulting in ED or increasing the risk of ED. If you experience ED and think that it may be a result of the medication you are using, do not stop taking the medication. If the problem persists, contact your doctor and he or she may be able to prescribe a different medication.”
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
The pain reliever, Naproxen, that you grab for headaches, gout, arthritis, a painful back or elbow tendonitis can be the cause of your ED. A study conducted by Kaiser Permanente Southern California found that men who regularly took NSAIDs were 38% more likely to report problems maintaining an erection. A heart-to-heart with your physician may shed more light on your medication and ED problems.
High blood pressure medications
Your hypertension medication could be the problem of your ED. It is crucial to know, do not stop your medication. You need to take it daily to lower your high blood pressure in order to reduce your risk of a heart attack or a stroke. An example of this medication is hydrochlorothiazide which removes extra water and salt that can accumulate in your body. Other examples of these medications are benazepril, chlorthalidone, bumetanide, clonidine, and furosemide.
Antidepressants
SSRIs, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, can be traced to some cases of ED. These medications can be used to improve your anxiety, improve your feelings of sadness or hopelessness and increase your energy levels. Fluoxetine is one example of an SSRI. Amitriptyline, clomipramine, sertraline, buspirone, and diazepam are other examples of SSRI medications.
Don’t stop taking medications or add medications without speaking to your medical provider.
