Medical professionals warn that beta-blockers, certain diabetes medicines, and therapies for kidney disease can influence sexual function. They note that these drugs may raise the risk of sexual dysfunction in both men and women. Source: clinical guidance from a cardiology specialist.
Beta-blockers can contribute to erectile difficulties in men. These medications are prescribed to regulate irregular heart rhythms and to reduce the risk of a second heart attack. By dampening the heart’s response to adrenaline, they slow blood flow not only in the heart but throughout the body, including the genital area, which can affect erection.
These drugs blunt adrenaline’s effect on the heart, which can limit the pace of blood circulation. As a result, blood flow slows in other parts of the body as well, including the penis, potentially undermining the ability to achieve or maintain an erection.
In addition, some cardiovascular medicines can have a mild sedative effect, which may lower sexual desire in women and affect overall energy for sexual activity.
Psychological factors also play a role in sexual function. Thiazide diuretics, commonly prescribed for high blood pressure, heart failure, and edema, can worsen sexual symptoms by altering energy and fluid balance. These drugs work by increasing urine production through interference with sodium reabsorption in the kidneys.
While the precise mechanism by which thiazide diuretics influence penile function remains unclear, some clinicians suggest they may affect the smooth muscles of the penis. Alpha-blockers, a related class, relax muscles in the prostate and bladder to ease urination. They are used for conditions such as enlarged prostate, certain kidney or liver problems, low blood pressure, and, in some cases, cancer management.
ADHD stimulant medications may also be linked to sexual dysfunction in some patients. These drugs can constrict blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the genital area and impacting arousal and erection. Source: clinical observations from practitioners.
Earlier research has established that testosterone plays a role in male sexual desire, influencing libido levels and sexual drive across different life stages. Source: hormone research.