(Foreword: This is the continuation of our response to Erick A. on his query on his anti-hypertensive medications in relation to his problem with reproductive health.)
Dear Erick A.,
Alright, let’s move on to some of the high blood pressure drugs that are less likely to cause erectile dysfunction:
1. ACE inhibitors (those ending in -pril, like Captopril)
Erectile dysfunction is a rare side effect and is seen in less than 1% of patients.
2. Alpha-blockers (those ending in -zosin, like Prazosin)
In one study, men had 100% improvement with their erectile dysfunction.
3. Calcium channel blockers (those ending in -dipine, like Amlodipine)
Erectile dysfunction is rare with these medications.
4. ARBs (those ending in -sartan, like Losartan)
This improves erectile dysfunction by 58%.
Since you have a problem with erectile dysfunction when you had taken your blood pressure drugs, then, you have to go back to your doctor and tell him your concerns – so, he can switch to another prescription if your erectile dysfunction is not because of your hypertension, but, because of the drugs you are taking. Again, DO NOT ever stop your medications without the advice of your physician.
Now, if it’s your high blood pressure that is causing your erectile dysfunction, then, erectile dysfunction drugs like Sildenafil or Tadalafil and its family can help you. But, only take them if your blood pressure is under control. And these drugs are not safe for those men taking alpha-blockers, or nitrate drugs for heart disease.
Good luck!
Dr. Fritz
(Dr. Fritz Legarde Espedilla is an aesthetic dermatologist and surgeon and a clinical sexologist. She is also trained in hypnotherapy and Medical Acupuncture. For your questions, you may send them to Dear Dr. Fritz, ℅ Sunstar-Davao Publishing Inc., Ebro-Pelayo Building, Juan Luna St., Davao City, or email them to dokfritz@yahoo.com. If you don’t wish your letter to be published, we regret that we cannot answer them. Thank you for your understanding.)