For prolonging erections, several supplements have been studied and suggested to have potential benefits. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional before trying any supplements, especially if you take other medications or have pre-existing conditions. Here are some notable supplements supported by research:

1. L-Arginine:

   • Efficacy: There is some evidence showing that high doses of L-arginine can improve erectile dysfunction (ED) by stimulating blood vessels to open wider for improved blood flow.
   • Dosage: Studies have used doses ranging from 1,500 to 5,000 mg.
   • Safety: Possible side effects include nausea, cramps, and diarrhea. Importantly, L-arginine should not be taken with sildenafil (Viagra)¹².

2. Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng):

   • Efficacy: Some studies have shown that Panax ginseng can improve sexual function in men with ED.
   • Safety: Generally safe for short-term use, but it can cause insomnia, headaches, and vertigo¹³.

3. Propionyl-L-Carnitine:

   • Efficacy: When combined with sildenafil (Viagra), it may improve erectile function better than sildenafil alone.
   • Safety: Likely to be safe when used under medical supervision¹.

4. DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone):

   • Efficacy: Some evidence suggests that DHEA can increase libido in women and help with erectile dysfunction in men.
   • Safety: Safe at low doses, but can cause acne¹.

5. Vitamin D:

   • Efficacy: Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with ED. Supplementing with vitamin D may improve endothelial function, which is crucial for erections.
   • Safety: Generally safe, but it’s advisable to get blood levels checked to avoid hypervitaminosis D⁴.

Supplements with Caution

• Yohimbe:
  • Efficacy: Clinical trials have shown it can improve sexual dysfunction, especially that associated with SSRIs.
  • Safety: It has been linked to several side effects, including increased blood pressure, fast or irregular heartbeat, and anxiety. Use only under a doctor’s supervision¹.

Before starting any supplement regimen, always discuss it with a healthcare provider to ensure it's safe and appropriate for your specific health needs.

Footnotes

1. Mayo Clinic Staff, "Can herbs help with erectile dysfunction? What to know," Mayo Clinic, 2023. link ↩ ↩² ↩³ ↩⁴ ↩⁵

2. Hye Chang Rhim, "The Potential Role of Arginine Supplements on Erectile Dysfunction: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis," PubMed, 2024. link ↩

3. Francesca Borrelli et al., "Herbal Dietary Supplements for Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis," PubMed, 2024. link ↩

4. Onder Canguven, "Vitamin D and Male Erectile Function: An Updated Review," National Institutes of Health, 2020. link ↩

Effects of Antihistamines on Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Antihistamines, including dimenhydrinate, diphenhydramine, and promethazine, have been linked to erectile dysfunction (ED). These medications can cause ED by interfering with the nerve signals responsible for initiating an erection¹. The effects can vary based on the specific antihistamine and the individual's response to the medication.

Effects of Ibuprofen and Other NSAIDs on Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen have been studied for their potential link to ED. The findings are mixed:

1. Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial:

   • A study from the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial suggests that the use of non-aspirin NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, was associated with a modest increase in the risk of mild to moderate ED. However, this association appears to be confounded by the underlying conditions for which NSAIDs were prescribed, such as chronic musculoskeletal pain and arthritis². In general, NSAID use was not directly associated with ED risk³.

2. Ibuprofen and Testosterone Production:

   • Research indicates that ibuprofen can affect testicular function, leading to a condition called compensated hypogonadism. This condition involves reduced testosterone production, which can contribute to ED and other reproductive health issues⁴.

Conclusion

While antihistamines can have a direct impact on erectile function by interfering with nerve signals, the relationship between NSAIDs like ibuprofen and ED is less clear and may often be related to underlying health conditions. Prolonged use of ibuprofen has been shown to affect testosterone production indirectly, potentially contributing to ED.

If you suspect that your medications are affecting your sexual health, it's important to consult a healthcare provider to discuss potential alternatives or adjustments to your treatment plan.

Footnotes

1. Gareri, Pietro. "Erectile Dysfunction in the Elderly: An Old Widespread Issue with Novel Treatment Perspectives." PMC, 2014. ↩

2. Patel, Darshan P. "Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug use Not Associated with Erectile Dysfunction Risk: Results from the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial." PMC, 2024. ↩

3. Mayo Clinic Staff, "Erectile dysfunction - Symptoms and causes," Mayo Clinic, 2022. ↩

4. Kristensen, David Møbjerg. "Ibuprofen alters human testicular physiology to produce a state of compensated hypogonadism." PMC, 2018. ↩