With a strong academic background in dentistry and clinical exposure, Dr. Sharon who has studied at PDM Dental College, brings a valuable blend of medical knowledge and communication skills to health content writing. She is passionate about creating clear, compassionate, and evidence-based content on topics such as general wellness, sexual health, oral care, and patient education. Her goal is to make complex medical information easy to understand, relatable, and genuinely helpful for readers seeking clarity on their health concerns. Dr. Sharon believes in the power of well-researched, empathetic content to educate and empower people to make better health decisions. Whether it’s writing about preventive care or breaking down myths in sexual wellness, her content always balances science with sensitivity.
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Updated on 12th November 2025
Article was updated as part of our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
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INErectile Dysfunction
Brance Chatbot
Quick Read
If you’re wondering, does lisinopril cause impotence? The good news is that the risk is very low. Studies show that lisinopril erectile dysfunction occurs in less than 1% of men, making it one of the safest blood pressure medicines for sexual health. In fact, by lowering blood pressure and improving circulation, lisinopril often supports better erections. While some lisinopril sexual side effects, like cough, dizziness, or fatigue, may occur, erectile dysfunction is rare. For most men, managing hypertension with lisinopril not only protects the heart and kidneys but may also improve overall sexual function.
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If you’re taking lisinopril for high blood pressure, you might be wondering if it could cause problems like impotence. The good news is that lisinopril rarely causes erectile dysfunction, and less than 1% of men experience it.
In fact, for most men, managing blood pressure with lisinopril can even help improve sexual health by improving blood flow. But how exactly does lisinopril affect sexual function? Is it different from other blood pressure medications? If you’re concerned about sexual side effects, like lisinopril erectile dysfunction, this article will give you the answers.
We’ll explain how the medication works, compare it to other treatments, and offer alternatives if you’re worried about these issues. Keep reading to learn more and make the best choice for your health!
Allo asks
If you’re taking lisinopril, what’s your biggest concern?
Will lisinopril cause impotence or erectile dysfunction?
35.7%
I’m more concerned about blood pressure control than sexual side effects.
7.1%
Are there safer alternatives with fewer sexual side effects?
35.7%
Can lisinopril actually improve sexual function by improving blood flow?
21.4%
What is Lisinopril and How Does This ACE Inhibitor Work?
Lisinopril is a prescription medication used to lower blood pressure. It belongs to a group of drugs called ACE inhibitors[1]. These drugs work by blocking a hormone called angiotensin II [2], which usually makes blood vessels narrow.
By blocking this hormone, lisinopril helps relax and widen the blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow and lowering blood pressure.
For people with arterial hypertension or high blood pressure, this medication can help prevent serious complications like heart attacks, strokes [3], and kidney problems [4].
Antihypertensive drugs are medications used to lower high blood pressure (hypertension). Like all antihypertensive drugs, lisinopril comes with potential side effects that may affect sexual function.
Does Lisinopril Cause Erectile Dysfunction?
The link between blood pressure medicines and erectile dysfunction is complicated.
Studies show that less than 1% of men taking lisinopril experience sexual side effects as a direct result of the medication [5].
For most men with high blood pressure, proper antihypertensive (medicines treating high blood pressure) therapy can actually improve sexual function by enhancing blood flow.
ACE inhibitors like lisinopril are less likely to cause erectile dysfunction. This is different from beta blockers and some other blood pressure medicines.
Current medical research supports using ACE inhibitors as the first treatment for high blood pressure. Studies from hypertension meetings and guidelines from groups like the European Society of Hypertension agree. ACE inhibitors have little effect on sexual function [6].
If you’re worried about ED while on lisinopril, remember that less than 1% of men report this side effect. Often, the real issue is untreated high blood pressure, not the medicine.”
In fact, by improving blood pressure control, these medications often help with vasculogenic erectile dysfunction. Vasculogenic erectile dysfunction (ED) is a type of ED caused by problems with blood flow to the penis.
The Link Between Blood Pressure Control and Sexual Function
How High Blood Pressure Affects Sexual Health
High blood pressure damages blood vessels throughout the body, including those that supply blood flow to the penis.
These blood vessels or vascular damage are a major cause of erectile dysfunction in men.
When blood vessels become stiff and narrow, they cannot deliver the blood flow needed for normal sexual function.
Benefits of Antihypertensive Therapy
Proper blood pressure control through medications like lisinopril can:
Improve blood flow to the sexual organs
Protect blood vessels from further damage
Reduce the risk of vasculogenic erectile dysfunction
Support overall cardiovascular health
Comparing Different Blood Pressure Medications and Sexual Side Effects
Blood Pressure Medication
Sexual Side Effects
Blood Flow Impact
Do they cause Sexual Dysfunction?
ACE Inhibitors (e.g., Lisinopril)
Low risk of sexual side effects
May improve blood flow
Generally well-tolerated for sexual function
Beta Blockers
Higher risk of erectile dysfunction
Can reduce blood flow
More likely to cause sexual side effects
Calcium Channel Blockers
Moderate risk of sexual problems
Varies; Amlodipine may cause fewer issues
Better alternative for some patients
Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs)
Low risk of sexual side effects
Similar benefits to ACE inhibitors
Losartan and Valsartan are good alternatives
Other Side Effects of Lisinopril
While erectile dysfunction is rare, lisinopril can cause other side effects:
Headaches and dizziness
Dry, persistent cough
Kidney problems (monitored through blood tests)
High potassium levels/Hyperkalemia [7]
Fatigue
Most people tolerate this ACE inhibitor well, and side effects usually improve after a few weeks of treatment.
Treatment Options: Combining ED Medications with Blood Pressure Drugs
1. PDE5 Inhibitors and Blood Pressure Medications
Many men successfully use PDE-5 inhibitors (like Viagra or Cialis) along with their antihypertensive therapy.
These medications work well together in most cases, though both can lower blood pressure.
Your doctor will monitor you carefully to avoid complications.
2. Alternative Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction
If medicine combinations do not work, there are other options.
Changes in sexual function after starting new medications
Your doctor may recommend:
Blood tests to check kidney function and potassium levels
Review of all medications and their side effects
Assessment using tools like the International Index of Erectile Function
Discussion of treatment options for both conditions
The Bottom Line
Lisinopril and other ACE inhibitors can rarely cause erectile dysfunction. However, they are usually among the safest blood pressure medicines for sexual health. The benefits of proper blood pressure control usually outweigh the small risk of sexual side effects.
Most men find that treating their high blood pressure actually improves their erectile dysfunction by enhancing blood flow. If you’re concerned about sexual side effects from any antihypertensive drugs, talk to your doctor about the best treatment approach for your individual situation.
Remember, untreated high blood pressure is a bigger threat to your health and sexual function. The small risk of side effects from proper blood pressure treatment is less dangerous.
"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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The content should not be interpreted as endorsement, recommendation, or guarantee of any product, service, or information mentioned. Readers are solely responsible for the decisions and actions they take based on the information provided in this blog. It is essential to exercise individual judgment, critical thinking, and personal responsibility when applying or implementing any information or suggestions discussed in the blog."
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Most Asked Questions
Can I take Viagra or Cialis with lisinopril?
Usually, yes, but both lower blood pressure, so your doctor will monitor you closely to avoid complications.
Is high blood pressure itself linked to erectile dysfunction?
Yes. High blood pressure damages blood vessels, including those in the penis, which is a common cause of vasculogenic ED.
What lifestyle changes help both blood pressure and erections?
Regular exercise, a low-sodium diet, quitting smoking, stress management, and adequate sleep all improve both blood pressure and sexual function.
Can switching from lisinopril to another drug fix ED?
Sometimes. If lisinopril is the cause (rare), switching to ARBs or calcium channel blockers may help.
Should I stop taking lisinopril if I have ED?
Never stop without medical advice. High blood pressure itself is more harmful to erections than the small risk from lisinopril.
This article was written by Dr. Sharon Kumar, who has more than 2 years of experience in the healthcare industry.
Allo has the expertise of over 50+ doctors who have treated
more than 1.5 lakh patients both online and offline across
30+ clinics.
Our mission is to provide reliable, accurate, and practical health information to help you make informed decisions.
For This Article
We carefully reviewed over 15 top-ranking medical articles and guidelines on lisinopril and erectile dysfunction to ensure this article is accurate and up-to-date.
We analyzed peer-reviewed research papers and hypertension society guidelines (like the European Society of Hypertension) to confirm the evidence behind lisinopril’s effects on sexual health.
We compared lisinopril with other common blood pressure medications to give you a balanced, side-by-side view of sexual side effects.
We explored forums and patient discussions to understand the real-world concerns men have when starting lisinopril and how it affects their sexual life.
We combined scientific research with practical advice on treatment options, lifestyle changes, and when to consult your doctor, so you can make informed decisions.
