Does Gabapentin Cause Erectile Dysfunction Or Anorgasmia?

Erectile dysfunction is a condition that may affect a man's sex life and can cause stress, which results in relationship problems. Physical conditions like obesity and heart disease can cause erectile dysfunction, while psychological factors like stress, depression, decreased libido, or erectile problems can also lead to erectile dysfunction. But, sometimes, the drugs used for their treatments can also be culprits, as Gabapentin does.

Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant drug used to treat people with epilepsy or Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). Specifically, it decreases unusual boost of excitement in the brain by stimulating the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma amino-butyric acid).

Research on the sexual side effects of Gabapentin is still incomplete, but the research that has been made shows that this drug may produce different symptoms in both genders. It can cause anorgasmia and decreased libido in women, even at low doses.

While on the other hand, this medication can cause erectile dysfunction in men and results in the loss of ability to orgasm in older men. Similarly, it often causes sexual performance issues, including changes in sexual desire or difficulty ejaculating, causing erectile dysfunction.

Anorgasmia Is An Effect Of Gabapentin?

Anorgasmia is a sexual abnormality in which a person cannot achieve orgasm despite good stimulation. This condition is far more common in females and is rare in younger men. It is even more common among post-menopausal females resulting in sexual frustration.

According to research, anorgasmia is found in women who take 900mg of Gabapentin regularly. Women taking both 900 and 1800 mg of Gabapentin got gabapentin-induced anorgasmia and reduced libido.

Is There Any Connection Between Gabapentin And Sexual Drive?

Sexual dysfunction has been linked with many medications used in pain treatment, including opiates, antidepressants, membrane stabilizing agents, and anticonvulsants. Gabapentin also acts as an anticonvulsant used in pain management. Hence, it results in erectile dysfunction in men and women.

Researchers found that Gabapentin also can improves sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction in women. These women with provoked vulvodynia experience vulvar pain during sexual intercourse, which results in a loss of interest in sex.

How Does Gabapentin Decrease Libido And Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

Libido is the term used to describe sex drive or sexual appetite. Libido can vary from person to person. Some people have high libido while others have low, which also depends upon a person's emotional state, hormonal levels, and physical health.

Rarely do patients report decreased sex drive due to the use of Gabapentin. Still, there are questions, is it wise to use Gabapentin to treat a condition for which it is designed? Gabapentin is mainly used off-label to treat pain disorders, and psychiatric conditions have previously been reported to cause a sexual malfunction at a daily dose of 900mg.

Male erectile dysfunction is characterized by decreased libido, and the regular consumption of Gabapentin causes decreased libido.

Can We Use Viagra While On Gabapentin For ED Solution?

Before taking Viagra, you must notify your doctor if you are taking any medications currently or any pre-existing conditions you have. Viagra is generally regarded as a safe drug, but you must be cautious if you have any heart problems.

A group of 315 drugs is known to interact with Viagra, and Gabapentin is one of them. Some combinations of the drugs are safe to take together, but consult your doctor before taking Viagra along with Gabapentin. Otherwise, it may result in erectile dysfunction or decreased sexual drive.

What Are The Other Gabapentin Side Effects We Should Take Care of?

Gabapentin, also known as Neurontin, is a prescribed medication primarily used for the treatment of epilepsy to control seizures. In addition to erectile dysfunction, there are also some other side effects of Gabapentin. Some of them are listed below:

• Abnormal eye movement
• Sleepiness
• Erythema multiforme
• DRESs syndrome
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Coordination problems
• Fainting
• Nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea
• Difficulty speaking
• Sleep problems, irritability
• Anxiety, depression, and panic attacks
• Violent behavior
• Psychedelic effects
• Sexual irregularities
• Sore throat and swollen glands
• Permanent organ damage
• Suicidal thoughts
• Shortness of breath
• Urinary problems

You must inform your healthcare provider if you face any of the above side effects. You may increase your sexual drive by switching medications, adjusting your dosage, or using sildenafil to improve your erections.

Conclusion

Many practitioners prescribe Gabapentin to treat RLS, control seizures, and reduce nerve pain. It is available in different forms, which can be used for various purposes. A study made by Rutgers University found that Gabapentin reduces painful sex and increases sexual desire in women. 

Due to its lower price and higher prescription rate, people think Gabapentin has little or no side effects. People experience erectile dysfunction when they take this medication, even after its prescription period. Always prefer your sexologist and your doctor regarding your sex life or anticonvulsant medicine.