Are My Husband's Medications Making Him Impotent?

July 18, 2001
Q. How good are the products I see advertised as herbal sex enhancers? My
husband, who is not yet 50, does not seem to get enough blood to his private
parts to become completely hard. Intercourse isn't very satisfying for either of
us.

He is reluctant to talk to his doctor about this problem so cannot get a
prescription for Viagra. The medications he takes include propranolol and HCTZ
for high blood pressure and cimetidine for heartburn. Is there anything
available without a prescription that could restore our love life to what it
once was?

A. Even though it can be embarrassing, your husband needs to discuss this issue
with his physician. His medications could be contributing to the problem. His
blood pressure pills can interfere with erections, while cimetidine (Tagamet)
has also been associated with sexual difficulties.

Trying to use herbs without addressing the underlying cause is not sensible.
Stopping these medicines without medical supervision would be an invitation for
trouble, so he should ask the doctor if other drugs, less likely to interfere
with sexual performance, might be appropriate.

Check out our Guides to Drugs That Affect Sexuality and Treating Sexual
Dysfunction for more information on how medication may interfere with erections
or reduce libido, and what can be done about such problems.






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