From the Research
Losartan is unlikely to cause impotence, and in fact, it may improve erectile function in some patients, as evidenced by a study published in 2001 1. This is because losartan belongs to the angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) class of medications, which generally have a lower incidence of sexual side effects than older antihypertensive drugs like beta-blockers or diuretics. Some key points to consider:
- A study published in 2001 found that losartan improved sexual satisfaction and frequency of sexual activity in patients with erectile dysfunction 1.
- Another study published in 2002 suggested that losartan and doxazosin may have a positive effect on erectile function, and may be beneficial in patients who develop erectile dysfunction after starting treatment with other antihypertensive drugs 2.
- A study published in 2004 found that losartan had a protective effect on penile structures in male spontaneously hypertensive rats, and may help to prevent erectile dysfunction caused by arterial hypertension 3.
- It's worth noting that phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, such as sildenafil and tadalafil, can be used to treat erectile dysfunction, and may be safe to use with losartan, but caution should be exercised when using these medications together, especially with nitrates or α-blockers 4, 5. If you experience erectile dysfunction while taking losartan, don't stop the medication abruptly, but consult your healthcare provider, as they may adjust your dosage or add treatments specifically for erectile dysfunction. The mechanism behind this potential side effect isn't fully understood, but may relate to changes in blood flow or hormonal effects. Many patients don't experience this side effect at all, and for some who do, the issue may improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication.