Warnings on Alternative Remedies Used for Erectile Dysfunction
Alternative or natural remedies are not regulated and their quality is not publicly controlled. In addition, any substance that can affect the bodys chemistry can, like any drug, produce side effects that may be harmful. There have been a number of reported cases of serious and even lethal side effects from so-called natural products.
Some so-called natural remedies have been found to contain standard prescription medication. Most reported problems occur in herbal remedies imported from Asia, with one study reporting a significant percentage of such remedies containing toxic metals. Even if studies report positive benefits, most, to date, are very small. In addition, the substances used in such studies are, in most cases, not what are being marketed to the public.
The following website is building a database of natural remedy brands that it tests and rates. Not all are yet available (www.consumerlab.com).
The Food and Drug Administration has a program called MEDWATCH for people to report adverse reactions to untested substances, such as herbal remedies and vitamins (800-332-1088).
The following are some alternative remedies used for erectile dysfunction.
Gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL). GBL is found in products marketed for improving sexual function (Verve, Jolt). This substance can convert to a chemical that can cause toxic and life-threatening effects, including seizures and even coma.
Ginseng. Ginseng has hormonal qualities and should not be used with estrogen. It has also been associated with a hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and a higher risk for uterine bleeding. It may produce manic episodes, particularly in people on antidepressants. Of note, a great number of ginseng products have been found to contain little or no ginseng. Of particular concern are reports of pesticide and other toxic contaminants in many ginseng products. In one analysis, only nine out of 22 brands did not contain major contaminants. Among the brands that did not contain contaminants were Celestial Seasoning, Centrum, Ginsana, Walgreen's, and Root to Health American Ginseng.
Gingko. Although the risks for gingko appear to be low, there is an increased risk for bleeding at high doses and interaction with high doses of vitamin E, anti-clotting medications, aspirin, or other NSAIDs. Large doses have also been known to cause convulsion. Commercial gingko preparations have also been reported to contain colchicine, an agent that can be harmful in pregnant women and people with kidney or liver problems. It should be further noted that in a 2002 study one-third of 26 brands tested did not contain enough active ingredients to provide any effects at all.
L- arginine (also called arginine). Arginine may cause gastrointestinal problems. It can also lower blood pressure and change levels of certain chemicals and electrolytes in the body. It may increase the risk for bleeding. Some people have an allergic reaction to it, which in same cases may be severe. It may worsen asthma.
Aphrodisiacs. Aphrodisiacs are substances that are supposed to increase sexual drive, performance, or desire. Some examples include the following:
- Viramax is a well-marketed product that contains yohimbine and three herbal aphrodisiacs: catuaba, muira puama, and maca. It has not been proven to be either effective or safe, and interactions with medications are unknown.
- Spanish fly, or cantharides, which is made from dried beetles, is the most widely-touted aphrodisiac but can be particularly harmful. It irritates the urinary and genital tract and can cause infection, scarring, and burning of the mouth and throat. In some cases, it can be life threatening. No one should try any aphrodisiac without consulting a physician.
Other Alternative Products Marketed for Erectile Dysfunction. Vinarol is an over-the-counter supplement that has been recalled after reports that it contains the same ingredients as found in Viagra. Of note, herbal supplements sold as Viagro and Vaegra have no association with Viagra.
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