Is High BP Med cause of problem

I'm 52, White Male, smoker who hasn't been to Dr for any problem in years.  Jan 04, I went for high bp  145-160/90-100 and a rapid heartbeat (few minutes)at night. I began taking 100mg toprol XL, 25mg hydrochlorothiazide, 81mg baby asprin.  Almost immediatley noticed lack of & longer to get as hard or large, and decrease in amount of ejaculate, from a lot to very minute. BP was 106-112/76-80.  Blood test for PSA, chlorestoral, & what ever else was told everything ok, then had a colonostopy (sp), no problems.  I told Dr to change something & she went to Benicar 20 or 25mg I think, with the others staying the same. Still have the same erection & ejaculate problem & it just doesn't feel the same.   This cannot be a coincidence.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

You're right, it's likely not a coincidence.  One of the side effects of beta-blockers (like the Toprol XL) would be sexual dysfunction.  Other antihypertensives can also cause sexual dysfunction as well, but not to the level of beta-blockers.  

If there continues to be problems, I would continue to modify your blood pressure medication regimen to see which one minimizes the side effects.  

A testosterone level can also be considered to ensure a low level isn't the problem.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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