Hypertension Medicine and Loss of Sexual Drive

QUESTION: In talking with several women recently, it appears that several
husbands have lost interest and ability for sex after being diagnosed for
hypertension. The common denominator seems to be their medicine. The men
apparently are reluctant to pursue the problem. As a doctor, what route would
you take to correct this problem? These men are not too old!
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ANSWER: Nowhere have I seen the power of communication more dramatically
demonstrated than in your question, with all its implications. Sharing
information makes us all wiser and sometimes leads to the discovery of
problems that are frequently not discussed, and from there to solutions.
While male impotence may stem from many causes, both physical and
psychological, there is no question that medications are frequently the
culprits. While the prescribing information may fail to take note of this
unwanted side effect, there isn't a textbook worth its cost that doesn't
include an impressive list of medications that reduce sexual ability. The
largest number are found under the heading "antihypertensives" with
psychotropic medication, both antidepressives and antianxiety agents, next in
line. Central nervous system depressants, including alcohol, as well as
sedatives and narcotics all are there as well. Now to the route to take, and
let us use the same technique to solve the problem that led to its discovery,
communication. If your husband has suddenly found himself deprived of powers
he had possessed formerly, and is unaware that his medications may be doing
him in, he must be suffering emotionally from this unexpected loss of his
manliness. This is kept locked up inside, frequently denied, but usually not
addressed openly. By sharing your knowledge (and this answer) with him, you
can take the first step on the path that can lead to the solution you seek.
Next step: the physician, who has heard this all before, but since not all
men have the same reaction, is also unaware that this problem now exists.
Communication, again. Last step, a change in medication for one which will
still control the hypertension, but does not generate this problem. There are
several such medications to chose from. I hope this answer will cause many of
my readers to stop and think, to determine whether or not they may be
unknowing passengers in the same boat.
.