Medications That Can Affect Libido and Penis Erection

1. Antidepressants (SSRIs & SNRIs)

Examples: Fluoxetine (Prozac), Sertraline (Zoloft), Paroxetine (Paxil), Venlafaxine (Effexor)
Effect: Suppress libido, delay orgasm, and cause erectile dysfunction.
Why: These drugs alter serotonin levels, which can inhibit sexual desire and nerve response.

2. Antihypertensives (Blood Pressure Meds)

Examples: Beta-blockers (like Metoprolol), Diuretics (like Hydrochlorothiazide)
Effect: Reduced blood flow to the penis, making erections harder to achieve.
Why: They lower blood pressure but also reduce the force and flow of blood needed for an erection.

3. Antipsychotics

Examples: Risperidone, Olanzapine, Haloperidol
Effect: Decreased libido and difficulty achieving erection.
Why: They block dopamine, a key neurotransmitter involved in sexual arousal.

4. Benzodiazepines (Anti-Anxiety Drugs)

Examples: Diazepam (Valium), Lorazepam (Ativan)
Effect: Dull libido and reduce arousal.
Why: These sedatives calm the nervous system, which can also dull sexual desire.

5. Opioids

Examples: Oxycodone, Morphine, Hydrocodone
Effect: Long-term use reduces testosterone levels and diminishes libido.
Why: They disrupt the hormonal axis, suppressing the body’s natural testosterone production.

6. Antiandrogens and Hormonal Medications

Examples: Finasteride (Propecia, Proscar), Spironolactone
Effect: Decrease libido, shrink penis/testicles, reduce sperm count.
Why: They block or reduce testosterone activity.

7. Chemotherapy Drugs

Examples: Cyclophosphamide, Cisplatin
Effect: Temporarily or permanently affect hormone levels and fertility.
Why: They can damage glands that produce sex hormones.

8. Anti-Seizure Medications

Examples: Phenytoin, Carbamazepine
Effect: Decrease testosterone levels and may affect nerve function.
Why: These drugs alter brain chemistry and may suppress libido and erectile function.
What to Do if You Suspect Medication Is Causing Problems
- Never stop your medication abruptly.
  Always talk to your doctor.
- Ask about alternative drugs with fewer sexual side effects.
- Consider adjusting the dosage under supervision.
- In some cases, adding medications like sildenafil (Viagra) can help counteract the side effects
Choose supplements that include herbs backed by clinical trials or peer-reviewed studies. Examples include:
- Panax Ginseng – Known to enhance nitric oxide production, improving blood flow.
- Maca Root – Traditionally used to boost libido and stamina.
- Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium) – Contains icariin, which may support erection strength.
- Ashwagandha – Helps reduce stress and enhance testosterone levels naturally.
- Tribulus Terrestris – May increase libido and support hormonal balance.
- L-Arginine – An amino acid that boosts nitric oxide for better blood flow.
Always consult a doctor, especially if you have heart disease, diabetes, or take medications like nitrates or blood thinners.

For more information on ED and what you and your partner can do check out this article on Low Libido.

There is help and there are alternatives, you do not have to suffer, and you are not alone. You will want to support your partner as best you can and know that no one is to blame. There is help and there are alternatives to medications.

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