Can high blood pressure medications lower sex drive?

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It’s possible. Some people who take beta blockers or diuretics (“water pills”) for high blood pressure find themselves less interested sex.

However, it’s important to determine whether diminished libido is caused by the drugs themselves or other factors related to high blood pressure.

If your libido drops shortly after beginning a new medication, the drug itself could be the culprit. But don’t stop taking the drug without talking to your doctor first! He or she might cut the dose or change your prescription to another drug that might have fewer sexual side effects, such as an ACE (angiotensin-converting-enzyme) inhibitor, angiotensin-receptor blocker, or calcium-channel blocker.

Think about other ways high blood pressure might be affecting your sex drive. For example, excess pressure can damage blood vessel walls. When this happens, plaque can build up inside the arteries (atherosclerosis – hardening of the arteries), making it more difficult for blood to flow into the genitals.

For men, this can lead to erectile dysfunction (ED) (Please see further information on high blood pressure and ED here.)

For women, the result may be poor vaginal lubrication, which can make sex uncomfortable.

Overall, anxiety and stress related to ED or painful intercourse – and high blood pressure in general – can take a toll on libido.

Keep in mind that there are other steps you can take to keep your blood pressure under control. Following a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight are all important. If you smoke, look into ways to quit. You might also consider reducing your salt intake and drinking less alcohol.

Managing stress effectively is another essential step. If life is becoming too chaotic, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Try some deep breathing and other relaxation techniques. Keep in touch with family and friends and make time for activities you enjoy. A therapist or counselor can help you develop coping strategies as well.

Resources

Harvard Men’s Health Watch

LeWine, Howard, MD

“Can blood pressure medications interfere with my sex drive?”

(May 2019)

https://www.health.harvard.edu/mens-health/can-blood-pressure-medications-interfere-with-my-sex-drive

International Society for Sexual Medicine

“Is high blood pressure related to erectile dysfunction (ED)?”

https://www.issm.info/sexual-health-qa/is-high-blood-pressure-related-to-erectile-dysfunction-ed/

Mayo Clinic

“High blood pressure and sex: Overcome the challenges”

(January 9, 2019)