Metformin and Erectile Dysfunction

Question:

Does metformin affect a man's ability to have erections?

Answer:

Metformin is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. This form of diabetes is initially related to decreased ability of circulating insulin to get sugar from the blood into the body's cells. This is called insulin resistance. At more advanced stages of type 2 diabetes, the pancreas may begin to wear out and produce less insulin as well. Metformin works by sensitizing cells to circulating insulin, thereby reducing insulin resistance.

Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can cause similar damage to blood vessels in many parts of the body. Many men with diabetes develop erectile dysfunction as a result of the blood vessel damage.

Metformin has not been shown to cause erectile dysfunction.

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Source: from the Harvard Health Publications Family Health Guide, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved.

Used with permission of StayWell.

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