Some drugs may cause your erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) tends to become more common as men age, in part because older men are more likely to be taking medications that can contribute to the problem. In fact, an estimated 25% of all ED cases are linked to side effects from medications, according to the Harvard Special Health Report Erectile Dysfunction: How medication, lifestyle changes, and other therapies can help you conquer this vexing problem.

Common Medications Linked to ED

Several types of medications are known to be associated with ED, including:

• Antidepressants

• Anti-ulcer drugs

• Tranquilizers

• Diuretics (used to treat conditions like heart failure, liver failure, and certain kidney disorders by helping the body remove excess sodium and water)

Surprising Culprits: Hair Loss, Allergy, and Cancer Medications

Additionally, Propecia—a medication used to treat hair loss—has been reported to cause ED in about 1.3% of men who use it. Other drugs that may contribute include:

• Antihistamines

• Anti-androgens (used in prostate cancer treatment)

• Anticholinergics (for overactive bladder, incontinence, COPD, and Parkinson’s symptoms)

• Certain anticancer medications

Blood Pressure Drugs: The Most Common ED-Linked Medications

The most common medication class linked to ED is blood pressure drugs. ED and high blood pressure frequently occur together—men with ED are about 38% more likely to have high blood pressure compared to men without ED, based on a study of more than 1.9 million medical records.

Shared Risk Factors and Warning Signs

This connection isn’t surprising since both ED and high blood pressure share common risk factors such as smoking and obesity. In some cases, ED may actually serve as an early warning sign for undiagnosed high blood pressure or heart disease.

Which Blood Pressure Drugs Are Most Likely to Cause ED?

While all types of blood pressure medications can potentially cause ED, the issue is most often reported with:

• Diuretics

• Beta blockers

Less commonly, it can occur with:

• Alpha blockers

• ACE inhibitors

• Angiotensin-receptor blockers

The Role of Psychological Factors

Interestingly, the link between blood pressure medications and ED can sometimes be psychological. Awareness of potential sexual side effects might cause some men to experience symptoms even if the drug itself isn’t the direct cause.

For example, in one study of men newly diagnosed with heart disease who started the beta blocker atenolol (Tenormin), nearly one-third of those told about the drug’s sexual side effects reported ED—compared to only 3% among those not informed about the side effects.

What You Can Do If You're Affected

If you are taking any medications and experiencing ED, it’s important to discuss this openly with your doctor. Be sure to report all prescription and over-the-counter drugs you regularly take. Your doctor can evaluate whether any medications might be contributing to your symptoms and may be able to adjust your dosage or prescribe alternative treatments.

How Long Before You Might See Improvement?

Keep in mind that if a medication change is made, it can take several days to weeks before your erections improve.

If you suspect your medications may be contributing to ED, Bastion Health offers personalized, virtual care from urologists and men’s health experts—all covered through your employer-sponsored benefits. Get the answers and support you need, from the comfort of home.