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Erectile Dysfunction and Drug Abuse
Many recreational drugs have an adverse effect on Erectile Dysfunction (ED) and ED is a common problem among men who have taken them in the past or do so now. That’s why our experts advise that men who take drugs and find that their sexual arousal is not what it once was should approach us if they are having problems with sexual intercourse as it may be as a result of their drug use or an indication of poor health and this should be accessed.
Problems with ED leave it impossible for many men to achieve or maintain an erection. But now with Focused ShockWave Therapy (FSWT) and other ground-breaking clinical technologies, Mansmatters is able to overcome and reverse this decline in many patients.
Please contact us for details right away or carry on reading to find out more.
Various recreational drugs can lead to erectile dysfunction by damaging blood vessels and impairing blood flow to the penis. Alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, and other substances have been found to restrict blood flow, which is essential for achieving and maintaining an erection during sexual intercourse. According to a study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, 36.4% of male drug abusers reported experiencing ED, along with difficulties in achieving satisfactory orgasms.
Cocaine and Erectile Dysfunction
Contrary to popular belief, cocaine does not act as an aphrodisiac. While initial use may produce positive sexual side effects such as increased quality and duration of intercourse and more pleasurable orgasms, these effects diminish over time due to tolerance. Long-term cocaine use has been associated with various sexual side effects, including decreased blood flow to the penis, diminished libido, loss of sensation during intercourse, and premature ejaculation.
A healthy erection depends on the ability of the penile blood vessels to relax and fill with blood. Cocaine prevents this relaxation by tightening and constricting the blood vessels.
Prolonged exposure to high levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and sexual satisfaction, can also desensitise the brain’s response to sexual stimulation.
Other Recreational Drugs and Erectile Dysfunction
In addition to cocaine, several other recreational drugs have been linked to erectile dysfunction:
- Amphetamines: These substances can narrow blood vessels, hindering sufficient blood flow to the penis.
- Barbiturates: Often known to decrease interest in sex, barbiturates can indirectly contribute to erectile dysfunction.
- Marijuana: While marijuana may increase sexual desire, it can prevent the smooth muscles in the penis from relaxing adequately to allow proper blood flow.
- Additionally Alcohol abuse can also be recognised as an ED issue
Reversibility of Sexual Side Effects:
Recent research has explored the possibility of reversing the sexual side effects of drug addiction. A study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine suggests that men with a history of substance abuse may struggle to regain their previous level of sexual performance. The study found that illicit drug users, especially those who abused cocaine, were prone to experiencing ED, decreased sexual desire, and increased ejaculation latency. The long-term effects of drug abuse, particularly cocaine, were found to be potentially permanent. (1)
While research published in the International Journal of Sexual Medicine in 2023 found that substance abuse, including marihuana; opioids; heroin; cocaine; tramadol; ketamine; ecstasy and amphetamine, all had a negative impacts on male sexual health that should be addressed. (2)
Addressing erectile dysfunction caused by drug abuse requires a comprehensive approach. At MansMatters we have a successful history of helping men with erectile problems regain their sexual function and enjoyment of relationships. These interventions typically involve a combination of medical treatments and lifestyle modifications tailored to each individual’s needs.
Shockwave Therapy for Treating ED following Drug Abuse
We have found that Focused ShockWave Therapy (FSWT) treatment for ED is often suitable for treating men who have even a short history of drug abuse. This innovative therapy targets the vascular system, stimulating the creation of new blood vessels, regenerating existing ones, and significantly improving nerve and surrounding tissue function. By enhancing blood flow to the erectile tissues, FSWT enables individuals to achieve natural erections without relying on pills or methods that may interfere with foreplay, offering a potential avenue for individuals seeking non-pharmaceutical solutions.
The erectile dysfunction therapy we undertake at our clinic is performed using the latest Swiss engineered technology shockwave system, the STORZ DUOLITH® SD1 which provides ultra-focused shock wave therapy, superior to radial shockwave used by many other practitioners and which is the most advanced device of its kind available today.
Using Functional Magnetic Stimulation to Treat ED
We also use Functional Magnetic Stimulation (FMS) to treat men who have ED. FMS is a non-invasive treatment modality that uses high-intensity electromagnetic fields to stimulate nerves in the pelvic area, which can improve blood flow to the penis. FMS helps improve penile blood flow and erectile function by addressing important underlying factors that contribute to ED.
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