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module menu icon What causes ED?

What causes ED?

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1. Physical causes

ED usually has an underlying physical cause.5 Men who are overweight, physically inactive or who smoke are at higher risk.
Certain health conditions can also make it more likely for men to experience ED. 90% of men with ED have at least one underlying condition, such as:6

High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Diabetes
Cardiovascular disease (CVD)

Top tip: Be aware of physical causes that can lead to ED. You can remind customers with CVD, high blood pressure and diabetes that they can discuss other health concerns in private with the pharmacist

2. Psychological causes

There are many potential psychological causes, including:7

Only 10% of ED cases have purely psychological causes.6 Be aware of psychological causes that can lead to ED, and how you may initiate a conversation regarding men's health

3. Some types of medication5

A number of commonly used medications can cause ED.

Examples include:

  • Water tablets (diuretics)
  • Some blood pressure medicines
  • Some antidepressants
  • Some anti-epileptic medicines

The list is not exhaustive; you can refer customers to the pharmacist to discuss their medication if they are concerned their symptoms are due to a side effect

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