Marijuana (cannabis) usually, known as weed is considered a recreational drug. These drugs are substances that are commonly used to alter one’s mood, consciousness, or behavior for fun. However, smoking weed every day and alcoholic drinks may worsen Erectile Dysfunction (ED). ED is a health condition when a man loses the ability to get and sustain an erection. In this document, we will talk about how weed affects erections.
Can everyday Marijuana (cannabis) use provoke Erectile Dysfunction?
If we will answer in a short form, yes, weed affects your sexual health. Furthermore, according to a study, daily use of Cannabis impacts your ability to get erections. In any case, weed may cause several health problems and ED is one of them. If you misuse weed or alcoholic beverages and experience sexual function problems, consult a doctor immediately.
How does smoking Weed affect your sexual health?
The principal psychoactive component of Marijuana is Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Moreover, the brain produces the chemical substance Anandamide, which is similar to THC. This substance works as a neurotransmitter that sends messages between neurons. THC has an impact on bran’s functioning and individual’s senses, according to SAMHSA. In addition, Cannabinoid Receptors keep under control how extracts from marijuana plants work in your brain and other parts of the body. Sensations examples include:
- Pleasure
- Memory
- Thinking
- Movement
- Sensory beliefs
- Concentration, and others.
Taking too much Marijuana (cannabis), the sensations listed above may increase. Several physical and mental functions may be disrupted due to the activation of neuronal Cannabinoid Receptors. THC affects your ability to do daily tasks by shifting your attentional focus. Thereby, daily use of weed impairs thinking and impacts your sexual performance. Cannabis also contains Cannabidiol (CBD), which does not have psychoactive compounds. CBD may help in the treatment of many health conditions (including hypertension, ED, and others).
The action of Marijuana (cannabis) on Erections
People who regularly (each day) smoke weed are at higher risk of developing ED. For a hard erection, adequate blood flow is required. Tabaco and Cannabis decrease the blood flow to the penis. Therefore, it affects your ability to obtain and maintain an erection.
Additionally, smooth tissues in the penis contain Cannabinoid Receptors. Hence, THC impairs penile function, which may lead to ED symptoms. You may notice decreased reaction time and drowsiness using marijuana, according to NIDA.
A man who uses regular weed often may experience problems with getting an orgasm. Consult a doctor if you experience ED problems before using ED medications because it may lead to unpleasant results.
Can Weed Interact with other Medications?
All medications and substances may interact with each other and Marijuana (cannabis) is not an exception. THC in weed usually changes the working of the enzymes in your body. Hence, this effect may reduce the effectiveness of the medications that you are using. Check below some examples of interactions:
- Antidepressants (such as Sertraline)
- Blood Thinners (such as Warfarin)
- Breast Cancer drugs (such as Tamoxifen)
- Painkillers (such as Ibuprofen and Tylenol)
- Sleeping drugs (such as Lorazepam, Zolpidem, Alprazolam, and others)
Inform your healthcare professional if you are using weed while administering other medicines.
