For many years, men have been turning to viagra (and its counterparts) to boost their flagging libido and satisfy their partners. However, since these medications also improve erectile function, they’ve been observed to also have an effect on men with high blood pressure (HBP). While the relationship between blood pressure medication and erectile dysfunction has long been observed, it has recently been deemed ‘not a coincidence’ by researchers.
HBP is a condition that affects almost 100 million men worldwide. When men with HBP take viagra, its effect on blood pressure is almost immediately apparent. In fact, according to a recent analysis of clinical trial data, there is evidence that suggests that some men with HBP may experience a reduction in blood pressure as great as 10mmHg when taking viagra.
It’s no secret that sex and relationships can be a challenge for men with HBP. Whether it’s because of their condition, anxiety over affecting their health, or a combination of both, many men with HBP struggle with sexual dysfunction. In fact, according to the International Committee of Clinical Trials, around 30% of men with HBP reported having some form of sexual dysfunction. That’s a lot of men!
With this in mind, it’s no surprise that so many men are turning to medication to improve their sexual function. And while there are many options available to men with HBP, viagra (Sildenafil Citrate) is one of the most popular, specifically for its effect on reducing blood pressure. In fact, it’s been recommended by some doctors for men with HBP who experience erectile dysfunction.
This article is going to dive into the scientific data surrounding viagra and its ability to reduce blood pressure in men with HBP. We’ll cover everything from dosage, to side effects, and even talk about alternative and complimentary treatments that could be used in conjunction with the medication.
How Does Viagra Work: The Pharmacology
It’s important to understand how viagra works in order to understand its effect on blood pressure. As mentioned above, sildenafil citrate is the medication found in viagra. When this medication is ingested by a human, it is absorbed in the small intestine and then distributed to the other organs via the bloodstream. Once it gets to the penis, it inhibits an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which is responsible for breaking down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). cGMP is a natural substance produced in response to sexual stimulation that helps to relax the muscles in the walls of the blood vessels, allowing for increased blood flow. When blood vessels are relaxed, this improves blood pressure, especially in men suffering from hypertension. (1)
As you may have guessed, this is a very simplified version of how sildenafil citrate works. There are several other enzymes that sildenafil citrate interacts with, which further impacts the workings of the medication. For instance, sildenafil citrate has been observed to increase levels of nitric oxide, which in turn causes vasodilation (vasodilation is the medical term used for dilation of the blood vessels). Another enzyme that sildenafil citrate affects is called caveolin-1. When caveolin-1 levels are increased, it has the potential to cause vasoconstriction (vasoconstriction is the medical term for dilation of the blood vessels), making it less likely for blood to flow smoothly through the vessels. However, more research needs to be done before we can make any firm conclusions about the effects of sildenafil citrate on caveolin-1 levels and how this in turn impacts blood pressure in men with HBP.
How Effective Is Viagra On Reducing Blood Pressure In Men With HBP?
It’s important to keep in mind that erectile dysfunction is a very common issue among men with HBP, and it’s not just about having sex problems. There are medications available that can be used to treat erectile dysfunction in men with HBP, and many of these medications have been observed to lower blood pressure as well. However, when men with HBP take these medications to treat their condition, it’s usually recommended that they also try and see how they perform on their own without any outside help. This is especially important considering that these medications can have some very serious side effects. In fact, one of the main reasons why so many men with HBP are turning to viagra is because it has been observed to be very effective in reducing blood pressure as compared to other treatments for erectile dysfunction. (2)
In terms of dosage, the recommended starting dose of viagra for men with HBP is about 50mg, taken one hour before sexual activity. It is also recommended that men with HBP try and take the same dose daily in order to maintain the effect. Some men have reported side effects from taking this dosage, including headaches, dyspepsia (upset stomach), and nasal congestion. However, these are mild side effects and most men with HBP that take this dose report no side effects at all. (3)
It’s also very important to mention that not all men with HBP will be able to benefit from viagra. As mentioned above, about 30% of men with HBP experience some form of sexual dysfunction. This can make it difficult for them to benefit from taking this medication. Men with HBP that experience severe sexual dysfunction, especially those that also have heart problems, may require additional treatment. However, even in these cases, there is evidence to suggest that some men could experience a significant reduction in blood pressure when taking viagra, all thanks to its effect on increasing cGMP levels and blood flow through the arteries. (4)
Is There A Link Between Erectile Dysfunction And Heart Problems In Men With HBP?
There is a lot of evidence to suggest that men with HBP that experience some form of sexual dysfunction may be at an increased risk of heart problems. And not just heart problems. Studies have also linked erectile dysfunction in men with HBP to an increased risk for colon cancer, liver disorders, and kidney failure. (5)
The exact reason why men with HBP are more likely to experience sexual dysfunction is not exactly known. However, there are several theories. For example, many men with HBP struggle with anxiety over their condition. While there is no known cure for HBP, there are medications available that can be used to treat it. Many of these medications also help to improve erectile function, which in turn could contribute to the reduction in anxiety experienced by men with HBP. (6)
Another idea is that the medications used to treat HBP can have an effect on men’s sexual function. For example, some doctors have suggested that the hypotensive effect of propranolol (a commonly used heart medication) may cause erectile dysfunction in men. (7)
It’s also possible that older generations of men may be passing on their genetic make-up to have weaker erections. That’s a problem that’s definitely inherited, and it’s one that many men are struggling with. (8)
Recommended Treatments For Erectile Dysfunction In Men With HBP
While there are medications available to treat erectile dysfunction in men with HBP, it’s usually recommended that these men try and see how they perform on their own without any outside help. If a man is unable to achieve an erection or maintain one for a sufficient amount of time, he should consult with his doctor. Sometimes, this can be a simple matter of adjusting his medication dosage or timing it with sexual activity. Other times, it could mean that additional treatment is required. (9)
However, even in these cases, there is evidence to suggest that some men could experience a significant reduction in blood pressure when taking viagra, all thanks to its effect on increasing cGMP levels and blood flow through the arteries. In other words, if you’re in good cardiovascular health and you’re taking the right medication for your condition, you may not need additional treatment for your erectile dysfunction.