In 2018, more than 11 million Americans consumed marijuana, according to data from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). In conclusion, marijuana usage, whether for therapeutic or recreational purposes, is very widespread.
Pain management is a common use of medical marijuana in the US. Although marijuana doesn’t have the potency to significantly lessen really severe pain, it does work quite well to alleviate the chronic pain that afflict millions of Americans each year, according to reputable sources like Harvard Medical School.
Like most recreational substances, marijuana has both beneficial advantages and negative harmful effects. The immediate effects of marijuana include pain alleviation, changed perceptions, emotional changes, and some degree of mental and functioning impairment.
The majority of these are brought on by delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive component of marijuana.
Additionally, marijuana has certain negative impacts on the sex life, such as a higher chance of erectile problems (ED). The scientific evidence for this connection is contradictory, with some studies claiming that marijuana improves sexual performance and others suggesting the opposite.
If you often use marijuana, whether medically or just recreationally, you should be aware of the potential effects it may have on your erection.
Marijuana and Erectile Dysfunction Treatments
Currently, FDA-approved drugs like sildenafil (the active component in Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and avanafil are the most effective way to treat erectile dysfunction (Stendra).
These drugs function by boosting blood flow to your penis, which makes it simpler to become and maintain a hard surface while you’re sexually stimulated. After speaking with a healthcare professional, we have a number of erectile dysfunction remedies available.
Most men can safely and effectively use ED medicines. When used with other medications, illicit drugs, or other substances, they can nevertheless produce drug interactions, just like other pharmaceuticals.
Research into marijuana’s potential interactions with Viagra and other ED drugs is still scarce because it is still classified as a Schedule I drug.
There have been a few sporadic cases of marijuana and sildenafil interfering. For instance, according to a 2006 study that appeared in the journal Clinical Cardiology, marijuana can inhibit the isoenzyme cytochrome P450 3A4 that is essential for the metabolization of sildenafil.
If sildenafil and this action on cytochrome P450 3A4 are taken combined, it may potentially have a greater impact on the cardiovascular system and increase the risk of side effects.
If you frequently use marijuana, it’s crucial to consult your doctor before taking any ED drugs to lower your risk of encountering drug interactions. They can provide you with information on how to safely treat erectile dysfunction.
Cannabis and Other Drugs
When combined with other medications, including some popular over-the-counter and prescription drugs, marijuana can also have interactions.
Marijuana has the potential to interact with a wide variety of common pharmaceuticals because it affects many enzymes, including those used to treat psychiatric illnesses including schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression.
Additionally, it may interact with drugs used to treat certain allergies, cardiovascular problems, viral infections, and other conditions.
When speaking with your healthcare provider about other prescriptions, including over-the-counter medicines, it’s crucial to let them know that you use marijuana.
The Verdict on Marijuana and Your Sexual Life
Can marijuana cause ED? Can marijuana have an impact on your erections and sexual performance? We still don’t fully understand how marijuana affects sexual health, but new information is coming to light at a rapid rate.
Marijuana use for both medical and recreational purposes has only recently been legal, and only in a few states. As a result, there has been relatively little research on marijuana’s impact on male sexual performance, and there aren’t many large-scale studies from which to draw conclusions.
Currently, some research suggests that marijuana can enhance sexual pleasure, while others contend that it may contribute to erectile dysfunction and other sexual health problems.
Overall, there simply isn’t enough credible scientific evidence at this time to draw a solid, conclusive conclusion about whether marijuana is helpful or bad for your sex life.
It’s best to consult your doctor if you develop erectile dysfunction after consuming marijuana. By reducing the amount of marijuana, you consume before having sex, abstaining from marijuana for a few days, or making other adjustments to your routine and daily habits, you may be able to improve your sexual function.
Are you curious to learn more about erectile dysfunction? More information on how to enhance your erections for more fulfilling, pleasurable sex may be found in our guide to the best ED treatments.