Which Blood Pressure Meds Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

Is your high blood pressure medication affecting more than just your heart? If you’ve started noticing changes in the bedroom after being prescribed medications like amlodipine, it might not be in your head. In this episode, we take a closer look at the unexpected link between erectile dysfunction and blood pressure treatment. Could your medication be the cause, or is something else going on? We’re breaking down what you really need to know about how certain prescriptions impact your sexual health, and what steps you can take to protect it.

Dive in now for an eye-opening conversation you won’t hear at your regular check-up.

Episode Video

High Blood Pressure Medication and Erectile Dysfunction

If you've been dealing with high blood pressure and now you're noticing changes in your ability to perform sexually, you’re not imagining it. A very common concern among men taking high blood pressure medication is erectile dysfunction. One drug that gets brought up often is amlodipine.

Is it possible that a pill meant to protect your heart is quietly affecting your sex life? The answer is more complicated than a simple yes or no. But there’s good news: you’ve got options, and understanding them starts here. Let’s walk through what erectile dysfunction, high blood pressure medication, and amlodipine all have to do with each other, and what you can do to take back control.

​Why High Blood Pressure Is More Dangerous for Your Bedroom Health

​As of August 2025, the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology updated their blood pressure guidelines. Now, normal blood pressure is considered 120/80 mmHg. If your top number (called systolic) is between 120–129, you’re already in the early stages of hypertension, even if your bottom number is normal.

If your systolic number climbs over 130 or your diastolic (bottom number) goes above 80, you’re officially dealing with high blood pressure. That means your heart, blood vessels, and yes, your penis, are all at risk. Stage 2 hypertension begins when your systolic number hits 140 or your diastolic goes over 90.

These numbers may sound technical, but they matter. Especially when we start talking about how blood flow and hormones affect your ability to get and maintain an erection.

Can Amlodipine Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

One of the most commonly prescribed high blood pressure medications is amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker that helps relax blood vessels. But many men notice a decline in sexual performance after starting it and ask, “Does amlodipine cause erectile dysfunction?” The answer, the data is mixed.

Some clinical studies show no direct connection between amlodipine and ED, while others show a noticeable drop in sexual activity. A major clinical trial (the TOMHS study) found that men taking amlodipine had a 26% decrease in sexual activity over two years. That’s significant.

Even though amlodipine doesn’t affect erections as harshly as other medications, it can still reduce testosterone levels with long-term use. And low testosterone is a key cause of erectile dysfunction. So while amlodipine might not directly “cause” ED in every case, it absolutely has the potential to affect your sexual health over time.

Which High Blood Pressure Medications Cause the Worst Erectile Dysfunction?

Now let’s talk about the real troublemakers. When it comes to high blood pressure medications and their impact on erectile dysfunction, not all drugs are created equal.

The worst offenders are:

  • Thiazide diuretics, like hydrochlorothiazide and chlorthalidone.
  • Beta blockers, like metoprolol, atenolol, and propranolol.

Thiazide diuretics help your body get rid of extra fluid and salt through urination. While that lowers blood pressure, it also reduces zinc levels, which your body needs to make testosterone. Less testosterone, less blood flow, and more urination equals a recipe for ED. In fact, studies show men on thiazides are twice as likely to experience ED as men on other medications. And they also have the highest rates of quitting their medication due to side effects.

Beta blockers, meanwhile, slow down your heart rate and reduce the force of blood flow. That’s good for your heart, but not for your penis. These medications can interfere with nerve signals necessary for an erection and even lower testosterone in some men.

One exception? Nebivolol. It’s a newer beta blocker that doesn't seem to increase the risk of erectile dysfunction.

​Where Amlodipine Fits Among Erectile Dysfunction Risk Levels

​Compared to diuretics and beta blockers, amlodipine is actually less likely to cause problems. As a calcium channel blocker, it doesn’t have the same harsh effects on blood volume or testosterone production in the short term.

But over time, as we’ve discussed, long-term use of amlodipine has been linked to lower testosterone levels. That’s why it sits in the “low to moderate” risk category when it comes to high blood pressure medications that cause erectile dysfunction. It's often tolerated well, and many men can safely take amlodipine alongside ED medications like Viagra or Cialis. But always under your doctor’s guidance.

​Safer High Blood Pressure Medications That Won’t Wreck Your Erections

If you're struggling with erectile dysfunction and you're on blood pressure meds, talk to your doctor. You may be able to switch to options that are more ED-friendly.

Two classes of drugs that tend to have a neutral or even positive effect on sexual performance are:

  • ACE inhibitors like lisinopril or enalapril.
  • Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) like valsartan or losartan.

These medications lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels, but they don’t interfere with testosterone levels or blood flow to the penis. That makes them a smarter choice if you want to manage your blood pressure without sacrificing your sex life.

​Never Quit Your High Blood Pressure Medication Without Medical Advice

Never stop taking your high blood pressure medication on your own, even if you suspect it's causing erectile dysfunction. Suddenly stopping your meds can lead to a hypertensive crisis, heart attack, or stroke. Instead, bring up your concerns with your doctor. They can evaluate whether your medication is contributing to ED and may offer a safer alternative.

Lifestyle Changes That Can Fix Both Erectile Dysfunction and High Blood Pressure

​Want the ultimate win-win? Start exercising. Exercise is one of the most powerful natural treatments for both erectile dysfunction and high blood pressure. Regular physical activity improves blood flow, raises testosterone levels, and lowers your blood pressure, no prescription required. A simple 30-minute walk five days a week can make a real difference. Combine that with a Mediterranean diet, rich in healthy fats, lean proteins, and lots of veggies, and you're setting yourself up for better performance in the gym and the bedroom.

In many cases, men who commit to exercise and clean eating can reduce or even eliminate the need for blood pressure medication, with their doctor’s approval.

Final Thoughts

If you’re dealing with erectile dysfunction and taking amlodipine or another high blood pressure medication, don’t panic. But don’t ignore it either. Amlodipine may not be the worst when it comes to ED risk, but long-term use can still impact testosterone. Thiazide diuretics and beta blockers are the biggest culprits, while ACE inhibitors and ARBs are much more friendly to your sex life.

Talk to your doctor about what you’re experiencing. There’s no shame in bringing it up, and you could be just one medication change away from getting your performance back. And remember, nothing beats the basics. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and staying on top of your blood pressure the right way.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can amlodipine really cause erectile dysfunction?
While not the worst offender, long-term use of amlodipine has been linked to lower testosterone, which can lead to erectile dysfunction in some men.

2. Which high blood pressure medications are safest for erections?
ACE inhibitors like lisinopril and ARBs like losartan are considered safest, with little to no effect on erectile function.

3. Is it safe to take Viagra while on amlodipine?
Yes, in most cases. Amlodipine and Viagra can be used together safely, but always consult your doctor to avoid blood pressure drops.

4. Why do thiazide diuretics cause erectile dysfunction?
They flush out zinc (needed for testosterone) and reduce blood volume, which cuts off proper blood flow to the penis, both leading to ED.

5. Can changing my lifestyle reduce my need for high blood pressure medication?
Absolutely. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can lower your blood pressure and improve ED, often reducing the need for medication.

Additional Resources

Curious about how you can boost your bedroom game and build lasting confidence? Check out the Get Wood Now Boost course and start your journey to feeling like yourself again!

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Join me on a sexual revolution to empower men and women to regain our sexual power. The Modern Man Club is a place where I share my research-based secrets for sexual performance without medication or surgery.

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