Many scientific researches state that both men and women use sex-enhancing drugs, with men probably more highly likely to do same.
And, though physicians say that a satisfying sex life can foster good emotional health, which in turn can promote good physical health, using sex enhancing drugs is frowned upon.
Combining sex with drugs
According to Medical News Today, while Sildenafil (Viagra) treats erectile dysfunction in males, in the United States, two drugs — flibanserin (Addyi) and bremelanotide (Vyleesi) — have been approved to treat low libido in females. Some people call these medications “Viagra for females.”
The drug regulatory agency, FDA, does not approve the use of Viagra in females.
Indeed, scientists at the University College London note that combining drugs with sex is common, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
In a research by UCL and the Global Drug Survey into global trends of substance-linked sex, published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, researchers revealed that alcohol, cannabis, Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, also known as Molly, ecstasy, etc.) and cocaine are the drugs most commonly combined with sex.
Another research published in the International Journal of Medical Research & Health Sciences notes that more than 152 million men worldwide experienced erectile dysfunction in 1995 and that this number will rise by 170 million to about 322 million
by the year 2025.
Sexual dysfunction in males
Physicians say that sexual dysfunctions affecting men usually present with prevalent problems such as infrequency (male infertility), premature ejaculation, and impotence.
“To overcome problems associated with sexual dysfunctions, various aphrodisiacs are sought to enhance performance, with men reported as engaging in sex under the influence of drugs.
However, a consultant gynaecologist, Dr. Ayodele Ademola, has advised people with erection and potency problems to seek medical attention rather than using sex enhancement drugs.
According to him, taking sex-enhancing drugs can cause heart diseases.
hypertensive, diabetic and aged people are at higher risk when using sex enhancement drugs
Ademola, also the Medical Director, StrongTower Hospital and Advanced Fertility Centre, spoke in commemoration of the 2023 World Sexual Health Day (WSHD) with the theme: ‘Consent.’
WSHD is held annually on September 4 to celebrate every person’s right to sexual well-being.
The gynaecologist said that using sex enhancement drugs could cause cardiovascular diseases like hypertension, heart failure and other related diseases.
While noting that sex enhancement drugs have positive and negative implications on users’ health, Dr. Ademola warns that the negative implications of the drugs far outweigh the benefits.
He said it is not advisable to use sex enhancement drugs except when it becomes exceptionally necessary and that such medications should be used under a strict medical prescription and supervision.
“There are many instances where people who used sex enhancement drugs ended up losing their lives.
“I have had a situation where two elderly couples who took sex enhancement drugs simultaneously had a heart attack and died.
“Also, a young man of about 45 years of age who took an overdose of Tramadol with the aim to enhance his sexual performance, died in the course of having sex.
“If anyone has a potency problem, it is advisable that such a person seek medical attention rather than use sex enhancement drugs. This is because those drugs have many underlying side effects which may result in loss of life,” he said.
Ademola, therefore, advised people who have erection problems to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Those at higher risk
He noted that hypertensive, diabetic and aged people are at higher risk when using sex enhancement drugs, stressing that they should completely avoid using such because they might die in the process.
“Some people take excessive amounts of drugs in order to enhance sexual performance, but most of the drugs sometimes are not specifically made for potency improvement,” Ademola warned.
He decried the use of Tramadol, intake of excessive alcohol, over-the-counter sex enhancement drugs and other toxicants to boost sexual drive, saying that such acts are typical drug abuse and could result in more harm than good.
He added that some health implications of over-the-counter male enhancement drugs include damage to the urethra, permanent erection (priapism) and difficulty maintaining an erection.
Others are permanent problems with urination, penis fracture causing bleeding and requiring surgery, as well as drop in blood pressure (hypotension).
Natural aphrodisiacs
An aphrodisiac is a substance alleged to increase libido, sexual desire, sexual attraction, sexual pleasure, or sexual behavior. These substances range from a variety of plants, spices and foods, to synthetic chemicals.
And while many people readily believe that so-called aphrodisiacs are safe, physicians say it’s worth noting that many aphrodisiacs do not have the backing of scientific evidence, and some natural products may have negative effects. “If you’re thinking of trying a supplement, talk to your doctor first,” experts at online platform, Healthline, counsel.
Importance of good sex
Experts agree that sex itself may have direct health benefits. For example, orgasm or any loving touch may cause the body to release substances that ease pain, bolster immunity, or elevate mood long after the immediate pleasure passes. “Indeed, people who have strong, intimate relationships tend to have fewer chronic diseases and to live longer, some research suggests. So there can be good reasons beyond just pleasure to address any significant loss of sexual appetite or activity, regardless of your age,” an article published in Consumer Reports say.
Guide to better sex without medication
A sex expert says that physical activity is first and foremost among the healthy behaviors that can improve your sexual functioning. Because physical arousal depends greatly on good blood flow, aerobic exercise (which strengthens your heart and blood vessels) is crucial.
