Sexual dysfunction is a term which can stand for numerous conditions and states of affairs such as inability to get or maintain an erection, decrease of sex drive, problems with ejaculation, absence of orgasm and many others. All these problems may stem from certain drugs the sufferer is taking, both prescription and over-the-counter medications. Moreover, erectile dysfunction can lead to depression and hypertension in males, making matters much more complex and dangerous.
Medications behind Erectile Dysfunction
A surprisingly long list of medications which can cause erectile dysfunction exists. Some of these are parts of cancer chemotherapy or medications used for treating hypertension like diuretics and beta blockers.
Additionally, medications designed for the treatment of psychological disorders commonly have erectile dysfunction as a side-effect. For example, anti-anxiety drugs such as Paxil and antidepressant such as Zoloft both can have this effect. Medications for treating schizophrenia can trigger the same adverse effects.
Alternatively, various tranquilizers, medications meant for regulating hormones in one's body, or those taking care of an enlarged prostate, all can lead to erectile dysfunction too.
Medications which can, but do not always, lead to this problem are histamine H-2 receptor antagonists used for treating ulcers. Antihistamines used for allergy treatment have the same effect. Moreover, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications used as painkillers belong to this list too.
Finally, street and recreational drugs can also result in one's inability to achieve and maintain an erection. These include alcohol, amphetamines, barbiturates, cannabis, cocaine, methadone, nicotine when chewed or smoked and opiates including heroin and others.
Preventing Drug-Induced Erectile Dysfunction
If you start using any of the above mentioned drugs, make sure you observe the effects these have on your body. If you happen to notice any unwanted symptoms such as erectile dysfunction, stop taking the prescribed drug since there are great chances that it is behind the problem. Yet, before taking any steps, consult your doctor.
Note that, in some situations, you might need to take the drug in question for more than several months in order for its adverse effects to affect your sexual function. So, in this case, once you consult your doctor, he/she may suggest that you stop taking the medication responsible for the problem. Alternatively, he/she may prescribe you other medication which does not trigger erectile dysfunction.
It goes without saying that you should stop abusing drugs, alcohol or tobacco. These can lead to numerous other health problems besides erectile dysfunction.
Finally, use medications like Viagra or undergo other medical treatments in order to overcome sexual dysfunction.
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