Incredibly common household medicine could be ‘hidden’ cause of erectile dysfunction, doctors warn

Over-the-counter tablets used by millions could be causing men to suffer problems in the bedroom, a top doctor has warned.

Up to half of adult men suffer from some degree of erectile dysfunction and record numbers are now taking drugs such as Viagra to combat the issue.

Common triggers include heart disease, diabetes and obesity — but Dr Donald Grant, GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy claims failure to rise to the occasion might be down to household medicines.

‘Many people don’t realise that erectile dysfunction is a side effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including aspirin and ibuprofen,’ he said.

Research suggests that up to two thirds of the UK population use aspirin at some point while up to half of British over-60s take the drug daily.

Up to half of adult men suffer from some degree of erectile dysfunction and record numbers are now taking tablets such as Viagra to combat the issue

In America, a quarter of all adults may take aspirin daily in a bid to reduce their risk of heart troubles — even though they’ve not been directed to by a doctor. 

The pills have a range of uses including as a painkiller but they are also prescribed to patients with heart disease in order to reduce the risk of heart attacks.

Meanwhile, Americans get through an astonishing 30 billion doses of ibuprofen a year, with one in seven taking over the recommended 600mg a day. 

And Britons spend a collective £4.9million on the drug each year — with ibuprofen being used for pain relief and also to reduce inflammation in joint conditions.

The most side effect of these drugs that most often concern doctors is the damage they can cause to the stomach.

Aspirin, in particular, has been linked to increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding in older patients.

Dr Grant cautioned that patients should not make sudden decision of medication they take without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. 

However he added that, in his opinion, erectile dysfunction was a downside to consider: ‘Aspirin and Ibuprofen are some of the most commonly used medications,’ he said.

Dr Grant added that he believed ‘erectile dysfunction is a potential side effect as these tablets can negatively impact blood flow [to the penis] and the ability to maintain erections. 

‘While these tablets are available over-the-counter, managing intake and abiding by recommended dosages is so important.’

The exact link between erectile dysfunction and aspirin has caused debate in the medical world. 

A 2011 study reported that those who use the drug are 20 percent more likely to suffer erection issues.

However critics said the researchers didn’t take into account the number of patients who may have also had heart disease — and were prescribed aspirin as a result.

Heart disease is a known cause or erectile dysfunction as problems with the circulation can restrict blood flow to the penis. 

And there is also some research that has suggested in patient with heart disease that aspirin might actually improve erections.

A 2018 review of all the available data concluded that the subject was ‘controversial’ and that more research was needed before a firm conclusion could be made either way. 

Other medicines linked to erectile dysfunction include beta blockers and some antidepressants.

Beta blockers are a medicine sometimes prescribed to control blood pressure, prescribed to around 60,000 people in the UK and an astonishing 30 million American adults each year.

They are also sometimes offered as a treatment to reduce anxiety.  

Dr Grant said: ‘Beta blockers such as atenolol and propranolol list erectile dysfunction as a common side effect.

‘These medications can lower testosterone while also impacting blood flow — both are requirements for achieving and maintaining a healthy erection.’

Aside from erectile dysfunction medication Dr Grant recommends incorporating foods into your diet that boost blood flow — this includes apples, walnuts and dark leafy greens 

‘It’s intriguing to uncover so many over-the-counter medications that can escalate men’s risk or erection problems,’ said Dr Grant

Roughly 8.7 million Britons and almost 40 million Americans take an antidepressant medication, and Dr Grant warned: ‘Popular antidepressants such as citalopram, sertraline and fluoxetine could also be contributing to men’s erectile dysfunction risk.

‘Antidepressants have a direct impact on hormones, increasing serotonin which can influence testosterone and dopamine levels — affecting libido and the ability to become sexually stimulated.

‘It’s often listed as a side effect of antidepressant medication, however, it’s important to stay in dialogue with your GP to assess the best treatments available.’

Another type tablet that may trigger erection issues are antihistamines — taken to control allergies.

The drugs work by blocking the effects of histamine, a compound produced by the body that has a number of functions, including protecting it from harmful substances, such as infections.

‘Histamine is crucial for developing an erection as the chemical helps dilate [expand] blood vessels, improving blood flow and allowing men to become erect,’ said Dr Grant.

‘Therefore, it’s no surprise to learn that antihistamines can drastically increase men’s risk of developing erectile dysfunction.

‘Overall, it’s intriguing to uncover so many over-the-counter medications that can escalate men’s risk or erection problems. 

‘By adopting a healthy lifestyle, avoiding the overconsumption of these medicines and maintaining regular GP visits and check-ups, men can rest assured knowing they’re doing all they can to protect against it.

‘Aside from [erectile dysfunction] medication I recommend incorporating foods into your diet that boost blood flow — this includes apples, walnuts and dark leafy greens. 

‘I also suggest managing a healthy alcohol intake as drinking can play a massive role in the development of erectile dysfunction.’