Hydrochlorothiazide Sexual Side Effects

For those who are taking hydrochlorothiazide, sexual side effects (specifically impotence) are a possibility. However, because impotence occurs so rarely with this drug, it is difficult to determine whether this sexual side effect is actually caused by the medication itself or something else. If you are taking hydrochlorothiazide and impotence occurs, be sure to contact your healthcare provider.

 

Hydrochlorothiazide Sexual Side Effects: An Overview

Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a prescription medication that is used for controlling blood pressure and treating water retention (edema). It is sold as a generic as well as under several brand names, including Esidrix®, HydroDIURIL®, Microzide®, and Oretic®. As with all medicines, hydrochlorothiazide has possible side effects. Some of these side effects can affect a person's sexual well-being. In the case of hydrochlorothiazide, impotence has been reported as a side effect during clinical studies.
 
Impotence is usually defined as a total inability to achieve erection, an inconsistent ability to do so, or a tendency to sustain only brief erections. Ultimately, impotence is the repeated inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Impotence is also known as erectile dysfunction (or ED for short).
 

Hydrochlorothiazide Sexual Side Effects: Suggestions

It is impossible for your healthcare provider to know whether you will develop any sexual side effects while taking hydrochlorothiazide.
 Also, if a person does develop sexual side effects, such as impotence or a decrease in libido, it is difficult to know whether these problems are caused by another condition or hydrochlorothiazide itself.
 
However, if you develop any sexual side effects while taking hydrochlorothiazide, make sure to talk with your healthcare provider. There is treatment that he or she may be able to recommend, such as an erectile dysfunction medication. Depending on how severe your sexual side effects are, he or she may also recommend that you adjust your hydrochlorothiazide dosage or try another medicine to treat your condition.
 
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;