Sexual Side Effects: What Medications Can Cause Them and How to Handle Them

When you take a medication for high blood pressure, depression, or even allergies, you might not think about your sex life—but sexual side effects, changes in libido, arousal, or performance caused by drugs are more common than you think. Up to 1 in 3 people on certain medications report problems like low desire, trouble getting an erection, delayed orgasm, or reduced pleasure. These aren’t rare quirks—they’re well-documented effects tied to how drugs interact with hormones, nerves, and blood flow.

Some of the most common culprits are antidepressants, medications used to treat depression and anxiety, especially SSRIs like sertraline and fluoxetine. They can dampen sexual response even when they help your mood. blood pressure medications, drugs that lower arterial pressure to protect the heart like beta-blockers and diuretics also show up often in reports of sexual dysfunction. Even antihistamines, commonly used for allergies and colds can cause dryness and reduced arousal by affecting fluid balance and nerve signaling. These aren’t random side effects—they’re predictable outcomes tied to the drug’s mechanism, and they’re listed in prescribing information for a reason.

The good news? You don’t have to live with it. Many people assume these issues are permanent or unavoidable, but switching meds, adjusting doses, or adding targeted treatments can help. Some antidepressants, like bupropion, have lower rates of sexual side effects. For men with erectile issues, phosphodiesterase inhibitors like sildenafil may be an option—even while still taking the original medication. Women dealing with low desire might benefit from hormonal therapies or counseling. It’s not about quitting your meds—it’s about finding a balance that works for your whole health, not just one part of it.

In the articles below, you’ll find real-world advice on spotting which drugs are most likely to affect your sex life, what to ask your doctor when you notice changes, and how to manage these side effects without giving up the treatments you need. Whether you’re on a daily pill for anxiety, high blood pressure, or another chronic condition, you’re not alone—and there are practical steps you can take to reclaim control.