Atorvastatin is known by most people through its brand name, Lipitor. It is often prescribed to those suffering from high cholesterol and to patients with heart disease or stroke tendencies.
Some experts in cardiovascular health have raised issues about atorvastatin especially with regards to its association with erectile dysfunction which is valid, but not a predominant one.
So, if you are using atorvastatin and experience changes in your sexual life, remember that you are no outlier. We will discuss atorvastatin and erectile dysfunction (ED) and its potential causes, as well as available remedies.
What Is Atorvastatin and Its Mechanism of Action?
Atorvastatin is a statin drug that is intended to lower the rate of cholesterol production in the liver.
Atorvastatin is a class apart for the many side effects that come along with its consumption. For one, it lowers LDL cholesterol, commonly known as bad cholesterol, while increasing HDL cholesterol, the good cholesterol. Additionally, it helps to lower the chances of atherosclerosis and reduces the formation of plaques in blood vessels, thus lowering the risk of other cardiovascular complications.
Atorvastatin is most commonly prescribed for the following:
As the first step, lowering cholesterol levels.
As the second step, stopping heart attacks and strokes from occurring.
As the last step, managing heart diseases in the case of diabetes and hypertension.
Is Atorvastatin Linked to Erectile Dysfunction?
Atorvastatin does not have a direct relationship with erectile dysfunction; however, a lot of men have claimed to have had sexual problems after commencing the drug. This has prompted certain researchers to attempt to find a direct reason for their worries.
What Are The Results Of The Research?
Discrepancies:
Certain research studies suggest that statins have the potential to induce erectile dysfunction owing to their impact on hormonal and blood circulation enhancement.
Other research studies use the contrary argument, claiming that statins actually improve erectile function in older men with high cholesterol due to their improved overall cardiovascular health.
Important Studies:
As previously mentioned, On the other hand, or in the contrary claim, a claim was published in the 2014 meta-analysis in Circulation Journal; statin usage was associated with mild improvements in erectile functioning, which suggests that having heart problems also suggests some complications of erection problems.
However, there is some anecdotal and limited evidence supporting that men on atorvastatin were noted to have decreased libido and erectile dysfunction.
In What Possible Ways Could Atorvastatin Cause ED?
While the connection is tenuous at best, atorvastatin does have a significant impact on male sexual health in the following ways:
There is a higher possibility that a person suffering from hemostatic resuscitation most likely hosts the stronger chances of testosterone production along with estrogen, luteinizing hormone, and other such highly reproductive senile women.
Current Vascular Issues
Much like a multitude of other ailments, ED hints at insufficient blood circulation, which can be brought about by the same vascular issues atorvastatin is meant to alleviate. Here, it is the heart condition that has caused ED, and not atorvastatin. Does Atorvastatin Improve Erectile Function? It is rather intriguing to ponder the possibilities of atorvastatin aiding men with high cholesterol by means of giving erections due to the fact that it: Maintains the well-being of blood vessels. Mitigates the chances of plaque build-up in the arteries. Assists in elevating levels of nitric oxide, which is quite beneficial during an erection. For sure, at least one study has shown that the bulk of men suffering from some heart disorders or hypertension have much better ED after initiating statin therapy due to the improvement of their cardiovascular health. What Should You Do When You Experience ED While Taking Atorvastatin?
If after starting atorvastatin you are having erection problems, first tell your doctor before stopping the medication. Protect your heart health and do not stop the medication without a discussion because it can do more harm than good.
Recommended Actions:
Consult Your Physician:
Be frank about the issues you have been facing. Your physician may modify your current drug dose, switch you to another statin, or examine additional factors that may be triggering ED.
Examine Other Medications:
Have you started on beta-blockers, some antidepressants, or even medication for hypertension? These may also be reasons for erectile dysfunction.
Check Your Hormonal Levels:
A straightforward blood test can assess testosterone levels and rule out hormonal problems.
Think About Lifestyle Adjustments:
Participate in regular exercises to improve blood circulation.
Eat more fruits, vegetables, and lean protein to have a heart-healthy diet.
Try to reduce stress, which has a big impact on erectile function.
Explore ED Treatments:
Where appropriate, health care providers may consider prescribing PDE5 inhibitors such as Viagra or Cialis to patients on a statin, as these are usually well tolerated and safe.
When to Seek Instant Medical Assistance
If you see any of these signs in conjunction with erectile dysfunction, go to the doctor immediately:
🚩 Chest pain or shortness of breath
🚩 Severe dizziness or feeling faint
🚩 Blurred vision
🚩 Sudden loss of strength or feeling numbness, especially on one side of the body
These may be symptoms of serious heart problems.
Final Thoughts: Could Atorvastatin Be The Cause Of Your Erectile Dysfunction?
More often than not, atorvastatin is not responsible for erectile dysfunction in men.
Moreover, with better heart health, sexual performance may be enhanced over time.
That said, some people may experience changes in libido or the ability to maintain an erection due to the medication, other existing medical conditions, or even psychotherapy.
Important To Note:
✔ Do not discontinue atorvastatin treatment without discussing it with a physician first.
✔ Report any issues related to sexual health with the doctor.
✔ Consider making changes that may be advantageous to the heart and sexual health.