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Published on: 8/20/2026
Certain blood pressure medications, particularly beta blockers and diuretics, are among the most common drugs linked to erectile dysfunction (ED). Some antidepressants, especially SSRIs, are also frequently associated with ED as a side effect.
If you suspect your medication may be affecting your sexual health, don't stop taking it on your own—doing so can be dangerous. Instead, take a few minutes to complete a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what may be driving your symptoms, whether it's medication-related or something else entirely. It's a smart, private first step that can help you have a more informed conversation with your doctor about safer alternatives or next steps.
Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026
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Research shows that some medicines can make it harder for a man to get or keep an erection. Many of these drugs are used to treat high blood pressure.
Beta blockers, which slow your heart and lower blood pressure, and diuretics, which help your body get rid of extra water, are often connected to erectile issues. This happens because they may reduce the blood flow needed for an erection.
In addition, some antidepressants, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can also have side effects that affect sexual function. Studies that looked at large collections of medicine reports found that these types of drugs were most often linked to erectile dysfunction.
However, it is important to know that not everyone taking these drugs will have problems with erections. If you're experiencing these side effects, consider using a symptom checker to better understand what you're dealing with before talking with your doctor. They may adjust your medicine or suggest other ways to help manage the issue, keeping your overall health and well-being in mind.
(References)
Kaplan-Marans E, Sandozi A, Martinez M, Lee J, Schulman A, Khurgin J. Medications Most Commonly Associated With Erectile Dysfunction: Evaluation of the Food and Drug Administration National Pharmacovigilance Database. Sex Med. 2022 Oct;10(5):100543. doi: 10.1016/j.esxm.2022.100543. Epub 2022 Jul 14. PMID: 35843193; PMCID: PMC9537247.
Lou IX, Chen J, Ali K, Chen Q. Relationship Between Hypertension, Antihypertensive Drugs and Sexual Dysfunction in Men and Women: A Literature Review. Vasc Health Risk Manag. 2023 Nov 3;19:691-705. doi: 10.2147/VHRM.S439334. PMID: 37941540; PMCID: PMC10629452.
Lou IX, Chen J, Ali K, Chen Q. Relationship Between Hypertension, Antihypertensive Drugs and Sexual Dysfunction in Men and Women: A Literature Review. Vasc Health Risk Manag. 2023 Nov 3;19:691-705. doi: 10.2147/VHRM.S439334. PMID: 37941540; PMCID: PMC10629452.
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