Incredibly common household medicine could be the root cause of erectile dysfunction in many men, according to one doctor.
Having problems in the bedroom is a very common thing, especially as you get older. But it is something that you can experience at any age, with one GP saying it is rising in younger men due to one particular habit.
It has been reported that 50 percent of men will have some form of issue with getting it up during their lifetime, and there are drugs available to help overcome this problem.
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The likes of Viagra spring to mind, with more than 16 million patients using it across the world, and six million doctors having prescribed it at some point in their career.
For many, pills wont be needed with the issue fixable by lifestyle changes. Those living with diabetes or obesity are more likely to encounter the problem, for example, with heart disease another underlying cause of the problem downstairs.
Now, Dr Donald Grant, a GP and senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, claims erectile dysfunction could be as a result of household medicines.
These are meds you do not need a prescription for, and something millions of men will take every single day to treat health issues.
"Many people don't realise that erectile dysfunction is a side effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including aspirin and ibuprofen," Dr Grant explained.
Yep, we're on about the standard painkiller.
Millions take aspirin on a daily basis to help with body pain. Some get it prescribed, especially after suffering from a heart attack, or after being diagnosed with heart disease.
Ibuprofen is used for similar ailments, as the drug targets pain relief and reduces inflammation. But in fixing problems, they have an impact on your body in other ways.
"Erectile dysfunction is a potential side effect as these tablets can negatively impact blood flow and the ability to maintain erections," the doctor said.
"While these tablets are available over-the-counter, managing intake and abiding by recommended dosages is so important."
One study from earlier this year, entitled 'Potential causal association between aspirin use and erectile dysfunction in European population', found a 'casual association' between men in Europe taking aspirin and having issues with erectile dysfunction.
Certain prescription medication has also been linked to causing ED in ordinary folk, with beta blockers such as propranolol having a link to the physical issue. Certain antidepressants can also cause men to encounter issues.
Dr Grant said: "Beta blockers such as atenolol and propranolol list erectile dysfunction as a common side effect.
"These medications can lower testosterone while also impacting blood flow — both are requirements for achieving and maintaining a healthy erection."
He continued: "Popular antidepressants such as citalopram, sertraline and fluoxetine could also be contributing to men's erectile dysfunction risk.
"Antidepressants have a direct impact on hormones, increasing serotonin which can influence testosterone and dopamine levels — affecting libido and the ability to become sexually stimulated. It's often listed as a side effect of antidepressant medication, however, it's important to stay in dialogue with your GP to assess the best treatments available."
Topics: Health, Sex and Relationships, News
Tom Earnshaw