Amphetamine Use & Erectile Dysfunction
Amphetamines are stimulant drugs and include methamphetamine, MDMA (ecstasy or Molly), and Adderall. These drugs can treat ADHD and Narcolepsy but many people become addicted and abuse amphetamines. Abuse can lead to appetite suppression, palpitations, and a feeling of euphoria. Because amphetamines affect the central nervous system and the brain, they can also affect sexual function. Dosage and frequency of amphetamines was found to have an affect on sexual function.
According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 5% of 40-year-old men and 15-25% of 65-year-old men experience erectile dysfunction. According to a new study with 1,159 participants, amphetamine users were two times as likely to experience erectile dysfunction. The study involved men from a drug treatment center, ages 18-57, who reported using amphetamines recreationally with no other drugs. The control group included 211 similarly aged men who did not abuse drugs. The results, printed in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, showed that 29% of amphetamine users experienced erectile dysfunction compared to 12% of non-users. Users who took amphetamines more than three times a day were more likely to experience negative sexual function than those who took amphetamines just once daily.
Amphetamine’s Effect On Sexual Behaviour
Many men turn to illicit drugs and amphetamines in hopes that they serve as an aphrodisiac. And while some participants actually reported enhanced sexual function and desire, half of participants report a negative impact on sexual function in other ways (reducing erectile rigidity and sexual satisfaction as well as delayed ejaculations), particularly with high frequency usage. Despite claims that amphetamines actually lead to a more positive sexual experience, experts warn against amphetamine use, particularly abuse. Women who abuse amphetamines also experience difficulty reaching orgasm.
According to the AARP, 1 in 4 erectile dysfunction cases are caused by prescription drugs, including cholesterol medicine, blood pressure medicine, and even prescribed amphetamines.
Amphetamines also affect the brain. Researches believe there is a correlation between amphetamine use and the mental state of drug users. Those who abuse illicit drugs often experience psychosocial problems, which also contribute to erectile dysfunction. Researchers also noted that the setting in which amphetamine abuse occurs can also contribute to erectile dysfunction. In addition, amphetamines can also lead to increased sexual promiscuity, which is linked to sexually transmitted diseases.
Long-term amphetamine abuse can cause seizures, coma, hallucinations, and mood changes, as well as have an adverse affect on sexual function. Those who abuse these illicit drugs are encouraged to seek treatment for their physical, mental, and sexual health.