Does Metformin Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

1What Is Metformin?

Metformin is a medication commonly prescribed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It works primarily by decreasing glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity. Metformin is one of the most widely prescribed medications globally.

2Does Metformin Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

The relationship between Metformin and erectile dysfunction is complex and somewhat controversial. Some research suggests Metformin may actually improve erectile function by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation. Other studies have found that Metformin can slightly reduce testosterone levels, which could theoretically affect sexual function.

Importantly, the underlying condition being treated with Metformin — type 2 diabetes — is itself a significant risk factor for erectile dysfunction. High blood sugar can damage blood vessels and nerves crucial for achieving erections. So any ED experienced by men taking Metformin is more likely due to the diabetes itself rather than the medication. A key study found that adding Metformin to sildenafil (Viagra) treatment resulted in significantly better erectile function compared to sildenafil alone, suggesting Metformin may actually be beneficial for ED in certain patients.

3What Should You Do?

If you are experiencing erectile dysfunction, it is advisable that you consult a doctor. Here at Noah, our doctors are best equipped with the knowledge to help you ascertain the root cause of your ED and determine the best treatment for you.

4References

Knoblovits P, et al Metformin improves erectile function in nondiabetic patients with insulin resistance and erectile dysfunction. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2009; 94(6 suppl): Abstract P2-347 (Link)

Hu Y, Ding B, Shen Y, et al. Rapid changes in serum testosterone in men with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes with intensive insulin and metformin. Diabetes Care. 2021;44(4):1059-1061. doi:10.2337/dc20-1558 (Link)

Al-Kuraishy,H.M.,Al-Gareeb,A.I.,(2016).Erectile Dysfunction and Low Sex Drive in Men with Type 2 DM: The Potential Role of Diabetic Pharmacotherapy, J Clin of Diagn Res. 10(12), FC21-FC26. https://www.doi.org/10.7860/JCDR/2016/19971/8996 (Link)

Rey-Valzacchi GJ, Costanzo PR, Finger LA, et al. Addition of metformin to sildenafil treatment for erectile dysfunction in eugonadal nondiabetic men with insulin resistance. A prospective, randomized, double-blind pilot study. J Androl. 2012;33(4):608-614. doi:10.2164/jandrol.111.013714 (Link)

Patel JP, Lee EH, Mena CI, Walker CN. Effects of metformin on endothelial health and erectile dysfunction. Transl Androl Urol. 2017;6(3):556-565. doi:10.21037/tau.2017.03.52 (Link)

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