Medications that can cause sexual dysfunction

Some medications may cause a decrease in your desire for sex or in your body's ability to make sex pleasurable (such as vaginal dryness or inability to have an erection). These medications include:

• Blood pressure (hypertensive) medications.
  • Diuretics
  • Alpha-blockers, such as terazosin and doxazosin
  • Beta-blockers
  • Calcium channel blockers
• Diabetic medications.
• Antidepressants.
• Antihistamines.
• Tranquilizers.
• Appetite suppressants.
• Chemotherapy medications for cancer.
• Opioids.
• Antiandrogens, such as cimetidine and spironolactone.
• Antiestrogens.
  • Tamoxifen and raloxifene
  • Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analgesics, such as leuprolide and goserelin

If you are taking a prescription medication and think it might be interfering with your sexual interest and activity, talk with your health professional. He or she may be able to change your dosage or substitute another medication that does not have these side effects.

Do not stop taking a prescribed medication before talking with your health professional.