Various mental health issues and medical disorders can cause ED. Some lifestyle choices, such as the use of certain recreational drugs, could trigger the condition.
There is inconclusive evidence on whether the use of marijuana results in erectile dysfunction. Nonetheless, the particular effects of this drug could lead to ED (1). There is an increased risk of getting ED among people who smoke both tobacco and marijuana.
The Link Between Marijuana and Erectile Dysfunction
Marijuana can be obtained from the flowers, seeds, leaves, and stems of the Cannabis sativa plant. The primary chemical component in marijuana is THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) (2). There are many other related chemicals in marijuana, including cannabinoids. Marijuana is either inhaled or smoked in pipes or roll-your-own cigarettes.
Some people use marijuana to make tea or as a baking ingredient in goods like brownies. Most times, marijuana is linked to adverse effects that could interfere with sexual health, such as erectile dysfunction. The common condition results in stress and strain on relationships.
Most times, there is no reason to worry if the condition is infrequent. However, if the problem is consistent, your ED could be a symptom of an underlying medical issue. In this case, it is best to treat this health concern to resolve erectile dysfunction.
Effects of Marijuana on the Body
Smoking marijuana allows the THC element to pass from the lungs and move to the bloodstream. The component then travels through the bloodstream into the brain and several parts of the body.
THC acts on the reward and pleasure system in the brain. It prompts the additional release of dopamine, which influences sensation and mood. For this reason, people develop a high feeling after using marijuana. Other temporary effects of utilizing this drug include:
- Anxiety
- Rapid heart rate
- Memory and learning difficulties
- Coordination and balance issues
- Sensory-perceptual alterations
Potential effects of using marijuana for a prolonged period include:
- Mental health issues
- Recurrent respiratory infections and chronic cough
- Memory loss
Marijuana and Erectile Dysfunction Treatment
Medications such as Levitra, Cialis, and Viagra are widely accepted as ED treatment options. The pills enhance the flow of blood to the penis. The blood fills the erectile, soft tissue, which allows erections.
Since marijuana is considered a Schedule I drug, only a few studies into its possible engagements with ED medications (3). If you experience ED after using marijuana, you should consult your doctor before exploring treatment for the condition. Your physician may also recommend the use of penile prosthesis as an ED treatment.
Penile Implants
Men who have no success in treating their erectile dysfunction with medication, penile bands, and injections could try penile implant surgery. According to the multiple penile implant reviews found online, this method has a relatively high success rate.
Men with a penile prosthesis can get an erection and maintain it throughout sexual intercourse. This technique eliminates the use of other devices or medication. Consequently, it introduces spontaneity, which is one of the significant perks of penile implants.
In general, penile prosthesis devices have high rates of satisfaction among men with ED and their partners. You can go back to living an everyday, healthy sex life six weeks post-surgery.
Links to Sources Used:
- Relationship Between Cannabis Use and Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6893937/
- Cannabis (Marijuana) and Cannabinoids: What You Need To Know https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cannabis-marijuana-and-cannabinoids-what-you-need-to-know
- Relationship Between Cannabis Use and Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31795801/