When taken together, cannabis and some medications may cause adverse reactions. While cannabis has been shown to be non-lethal on its own, it can interact with other medications. The interaction can cause the medications you’re taking to work differently or become less effective alongside cannabis. You might wonder how cannabis and erectile dysfunction pills, specifically Viagra, interact. Research is limited, but there are some things we do know about mixing the two. Because it can interact with other medications, cannabis consumption must be handled with care and properly incorporated into your medicine regimen. Here’s what you need to know about cannabis interactions with Viagra.
Drug Interactions with Cannabis
Cannabis is often a safe, natural alternative to many medications, but how does it interact when taken in conjunction with other medications?
Depending on the medication, several different types of interactions can occur:
- Cannabinoid levels may be increased by other medications
- Cannabis may affect the levels of other drugs
- Cannabis may increase the clearance of other drugs
- Additive effects can occur with other drugs
These are just a few of the reactions that can occur, so it’s important to have an open conversation with a cannabis-friendly health provider who knows your medical history, current prescription medication routine, and goals for cannabis consumption.
Need help finding a cannabis-friendly doctor? Fill out our form here and we’ll be in touch to set up a virtual appointment.
What Is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction is the inability to keep an erect penis during sexual intercourse. Erectile dysfunction can cause shame on both sides, marital and relationship problems, lack of self-confidence in men, and other issues.
Though difficult to talk about, erectile dysfunction is very common. Approximately 30 million men in the United States alone struggle with erectile dysfunction, and it’s often considered a normal part of the aging process.
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
Like we briefly touched on above, certain factors can contribute to erectile dysfunction:
- Tobacco use can restrict blood flow to the veins and arteries, preventing blood flow to the penis
- Certain medications
- Health conditions
- Stress and anxiety
- Certain kinds of medical treatments, like prostate surgery
- Injuries
Will Cannabis Cause Erectile Dysfunction?
Due to common misconceptions, some people erroneously believe that cannabis can cause erectile dysfunction. However, a 2018 meta-analysis reviewed dozens of studies and concluded there was not enough evidence to confirm a link between erectile dysfunction and cannabis
Can I Take Cannabis and Viagra Together?
Research is limited on the potential effects of cannabis and Viagra taken together. A 2006 case study, however, reviewed the link among cannabis, Viagra, and myocardial infarction in patients with cardiovascular disease. According to the case study, cannabis may prevent Viagra (or sildenafil, the generic name for Viagra) from metabolizing correctly. This hasn’t been replicated or confirmed elsewhere, so it’s hard to say cannabis and Viagra present cardiovascular issues when taken together. More research is recommended.
