What medications can cause erectile dysfunction?
Many commonly used medications can cause erectile dysfunction as a side effect, particularly antidepressants, blood pressure medications, and antihistamines. Thiazide diuretics and beta-blockers are the most common blood pressure drugs associated with ED, though some antihypertensive classes like ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers are less likely to cause this problem. Other medication categories that may contribute to ED include antipsychotics, cholesterol-lowering drugs, opioid painkillers, and certain hormonal medicines used in cancer treatment.
Key points:
- Antidepressants - particularly SSRIs like fluoxetine, sertraline, and citalopram - frequently cause erectile dysfunction alongside other sexual side effects
- Thiazide diuretics and beta-blockers are the blood pressure medications most commonly linked to ED, while ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers cause it less often
- Antipsychotics, antihistamines, and opioid painkillers can also contribute to erectile dysfunction
- If you suspect your medication is causing ED, consult your GP before making changes, as adjusting your regular medication may help resolve the problem
This text has been fact-checked for accuracy by Sorin Romaniuc, Pharmacist at medino.