Will losartan cause erectile dysfunction
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Losartan and Erectile Dysfunction: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction to Losartan and Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that can be influenced by various factors, including age, diabetes, and hypertension. Losartan, an angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonist, is primarily used to treat high blood pressure but has also been studied for its effects on erectile function. This article synthesizes research findings on whether losartan causes or alleviates erectile dysfunction.
Losartan's Role in Erectile Function Restoration
Age-Related Erectile Dysfunction
Research indicates that losartan can restore erectile function in aged rats by reducing oxidative stress and apoptosis in the corpus cavernosum. This suggests that losartan may have protective effects against age-related erectile dysfunction (AED) 13.
Diabetic Erectile Dysfunction
Several studies have shown that losartan improves erectile function in diabetic rats by downregulating the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in the corpora cavernosa. This leads to a reduction in angiotensin II levels and an improvement in erectile function 256. Clinical trials have also demonstrated that losartan is effective in improving erectile function in diabetic patients, particularly when combined with tadalafil 6.
Hypertensive Patients and Erectile Dysfunction
Hypertension and traditional antihypertensive drugs are often associated with erectile dysfunction. However, losartan has been shown to improve erectile function in hypertensive patients. Studies have reported significant improvements in sexual satisfaction and frequency of sexual activity among hypertensive men treated with losartan 4910. This suggests that losartan may be a preferable antihypertensive medication for patients concerned about ED.
Mechanisms of Action
Suppression of Apoptosis and Oxidative Stress
Losartan's ability to improve erectile function is partly due to its suppression of apoptosis and oxidative stress in the corpus cavernosum. This has been observed in various models, including aged rats and those with cavernous nerve injury 19.
Modulation of the Renin-Angiotensin System
Losartan downregulates the expression of RAS components in the corpora cavernosa, reducing the local production of angiotensin II. This modulation helps restore erectile function in diabetic and hypertensive models 256.
Central Mechanisms
In addition to peripheral actions, losartan also improves erectile responses through central mechanisms. It enhances nitric oxide synthase expression and reduces superoxide production in the brain, which contributes to improved erectile function in diabetic rats 7.
Clinical Implications
Combination Therapy
Combining losartan with other ED treatments, such as tadalafil, has shown superior results compared to monotherapy. This combination is particularly effective in diabetic patients with mild to moderate ED 6.
Quality of Life
Losartan not only improves erectile function but also enhances overall quality of life for hypertensive patients. This dual benefit makes it a valuable option for managing both hypertension and ED 10.
Conclusion
Current research suggests that losartan does not cause erectile dysfunction; rather, it appears to improve erectile function in various conditions, including age-related, diabetic, and hypertensive erectile dysfunction. Its mechanisms involve reducing oxidative stress, apoptosis, and modulating the renin-angiotensin system. Therefore, losartan may be a beneficial treatment option for patients with ED, particularly those with underlying hypertension or diabetes.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Restoration of erectile function by suppression of corporal apoptosis and oxidative stress with losartan in aged rats with erectile dysfunction
Losartan effectively restores erectile function in aged rats by suppressing corporal apoptosis and oxidative stress, potentially benefiting age-related erectile dysfunction.
Losartan, an Angiotensin type I receptor, restores erectile function by downregulation of cavernous renin-angiotensin system in streptozocin-induced diabetic rats.
Losartan, an angiotensin type I receptor blocker, partially restores erectile function in diabetic rats by downregulating the cavernous renin-angiotensin system.
Non-RCT
Animal StudyRestoration of erectile capacity in normotensive aged rats by modulation of angiotensin receptor type 1.
Losartan treatment effectively restores erectile function in aged rats, suggesting that modulation of the renin-angiotensin system may be beneficial for treating erectile dysfunction in elderly males.
RCTAnimal StudyAntihypertensive Drugs and the Sexually Active Hypertensive Male: Benefits of Losartan
Losartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker, may be a better alternative for male hypertensive patients with erectile dysfunction compared to other treatments.
RCTLosartan Preserves Erectile Function by Suppression of Apoptosis and Fibrosis of Corpus Cavernosum and Corporal Veno-Occlusive Dysfunction in Diabetic Rats
Losartan effectively preserves erectile function in diabetic rats by suppressing apoptosis, fibrosis, and veno-occlusive dysfunction, while sildenafil has limited efficacy due to inadequate effects on these issues.
Non-RCTAnimal StudyLosartan improves erectile dysfunction in diabetic patients: a clinical trial
Losartan improves erectile function in diabetic patients, especially for mild to moderate cases, and the combination of losartan and tadalafil is more effective than either drug alone.
Non-RCTCentrally mediated erectile dysfunction in rats with type 1 diabetes: role of angiotensin II and superoxide.
Angiotensin II contributes to central NMDA-induced erectile dysfunction in type 1 diabetic rats, and treatment with enalapril, losartan, or tempol can improve this function.
RCTAnimal StudyThe Choice of Antihypertensive Drugs in Patients with Erectile Dysfunction
Doxazosin and losartan may decrease the incidence of erectile dysfunction in hypertension patients, potentially improving blood pressure control and reducing overall treatment costs.
Losartan improves erectile function through suppression of corporal apoptosis and oxidative stress in rats with cavernous nerve injury
Losartan treatment slightly improves erectile function and reduces corporal apoptosis and oxidative stress in rats with cavernous nerve injury or neurectomy.
RCTAnimal Study
Very Rigorous JournalSexual Dysfunction in Hypertensive Patients Treated with Losartan
Losartan therapy improves erectile function, sexual satisfaction, and frequency of sexual activity in hypertensive men, with potential positive impacts on quality of life.
Non-RCT
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