Dr. Pranitha Bangera is a gold-medalist dentist with a strong foundation in clinical training and patient care. Alongside her medical background, she has earned accolades in literature, reflecting her lifelong passion for storytelling. She now combines these skills to create engaging, research-driven healthcare content that empowers readers with reliable patient education. Her writing interests cover sexual health, mental health, and the latest healthcare innovations, where she simplifies complex medical concepts for a broader audience. Beyond writing, she has contributed to healthcare startups in roles such as community manager, creative director, and medical outreach coordinator, gaining valuable insights into healthcare marketing and patient engagement. A winner of several hackathons, including the Hult Prize on-campus round in 2024, Dr. Bangera continues to explore the intersection of medicine, digital health, and communication. Her goal is to make accurate healthcare information accessible, trustworthy, and easy to understand for people everywhere.
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Updated on 21st November 2025
If you’re wondering whether diazepam can cause erectile dysfunction, the short answer is yes; higher doses and long-term use can affect libido, nerve signaling, and erection quality. The good news is that these side effects are usually temporary and reversible once the dose is adjusted or an alternative medication is chosen. ED can also come from the anxiety or stress you're treating, not just the medication itself. If you're noticing changes in sexual function, don’t stop diazepam suddenly and speak with your doctor so you can safely adjust your treatment and get the right support.
If you’re taking diazepam for anxiety disorders, muscle spasms, panic disorder, or alcohol withdrawal symptoms, and you’ve noticed changes in sexual desire or erection quality, you’re definitely not alone
Diazepam and erectile dysfunction are medically linked, especially at higher or long-term doses. It can affect sexual desire, nerve signalling, and testosterone production, all of which affect erection quality.
In this article, you’ll learn exactly how diazepam affects sexual function, how it compares to other anti-anxiety drugs, and what you can do to improve things if you’re experiencing these changes.
Allo asks
Yes, diazepam can cause erectile dysfunction. Diazepam belongs to a class of anti-anxiety drugs (psychotropic medications) called benzodiazepines,[1] which are known to affect sexual function in some people. Several studies show:
Diazepam helps your brain slow down by boosting a natural calming chemical called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). This is why it works well for anxiety and muscle spasms.[1] But because it slows the body’s signals, it can also reduce sexual arousal and make it harder to get or maintain an erection. Let’s look at this in detail:
GABA prevents the release of dopamine. Dopamine is a brain chemical essential for sexual desire and sexual arousal. [4]
Low dopamine → reduced libido + weaker erections.
Some studies show that diazepam reduces testosterone, the key sex hormone responsible for sex drive in men, by interfering with the pituitary-gonadal hormones and the StAR gene needed for hormone production. [5]
Diazepam is a central nervous system depressant, which means it slows down the central nervous system and the signals that normally help you get an erection. This can reduce nitric oxide release, relax the muscles in the penis less effectively, and lower blood flow, all of which are important for a firm erection. [1]
Diazepam can make you feel tired, less motivated, emotionally flat, or even more anxious about your performance (performance anxiety). All of these feelings can indirectly interfere with your natural sexual response cycle. [2]
The chances of experiencing sexual side effects go up if you’re taking diazepam along with other medicines or substances like:
No, diazepam-related erectile dysfunction is usually reversible. Research shows that:
Absolutely. Higher doses → higher risk of sexual dysfunction.
This table shows how different anxiety medicines compare in terms of ED risk:
| Medication | Sexual Dysfunction Risk |
| SSRIs (e.g., Sertraline) | Very High |
| Diazepam (Valium) | Moderate–High |
| Alprazolam (Xanax) | High |
| Clonazepam (Klonopin) | Moderate |
| Pregabalin / Gabapentin | Low–Moderate |
| Buspirone | Low |
You should talk to a doctor if:
Diazepam slows the body’s signaling system, which can affect arousal and erections. If that’s happening to you, it’s not your fault; it’s just the way the drug works. And we can absolutely work together to fix it.
Never change your dose or stop diazepam on your own, as doing so can lead to withdrawal symptoms and make your anxiety worse. Always speak with your doctor first so any adjustments are done safely and gradually. Some ways to manage side effects are:
Even a small dose adjustment can reverse sexual dysfunction.
Buspirone is often used for anxiety with minimal sexual effects.
You can also treat the underlying erectile dysfunction directly. Options include medications like Viagra or Cialis, or using a penis pump to improve blood flow. Addressing any health conditions that worsen ED can also make a significant difference.”
If testosterone is low, treating it through replacement therapy can improve sexual desire and erectile function.
Alongside medical care, mental health support can make a big difference. Family counseling, group support, detox centers (if there’s misuse or dependence), and other therapeutic approaches can help you manage stress and anxiety more effectively. And remember, erectile dysfunction isn’t always caused by the medication alone.
Conditions like anxiety, panic disorder, and high stress can reduce sexual desire and affect erection quality on their own. Anxiety can trigger performance anxiety, tighten the muscles, and limit blood flow to the penis. So sometimes the ED is due to the underlying condition you’re treating, which needs to be addressed primarily.
Alcohol, opioids, and street drugs can intensify the sedative effects of diazepam, which increases the chances of sexual side effects.
Regular exercise, a balanced diet, weight management, stress reduction, and quitting smoking all support better blood flow and overall sexual health.
Psychotherapy for ED, as well as counseling, support groups, or structured programs, can help you manage stress, anxiety, or dependence.
If you notice changes in libido or erection quality, let your doctor know as soon as possible. Early conversations help prevent symptoms from worsening and allow timely adjustments.
Diazepam is an effective medication for anxiety, panic attacks, muscle spasms, seizure activity, and alcohol withdrawal, but it can also affect sexual function in some people. The link between diazepam and erectile dysfunction is well-documented, especially at higher doses or when combined with other psychotropic drugs.
The good news is that these side effects are usually reversible, and with the right adjustments, dose changes, treatment support, lifestyle changes, or switching medications, most people regain normal sexual function. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor. A warm, honest conversation is often the first step toward feeling better physically, emotionally, and sexually.
"The following blog article provides general information and insights on various topics. However, it is important to note that the information presented is not intended as professional advice in any specific field or area. The content of this blog is for general educational and informational purposes only.
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