Men Who Use Erectile Dysfunction Drugs Have Increased STD and HIV Rates

A study published in the July 5th. issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine report that men who use erectile dysfunction (ED) drugs have a higher rate of STDs and HIV infection than those men who do not use ED drugs. In a retrospective study of over 1 million men older than 40 those men using ED drugs had a higher rate of STDs and HIV both a year before starting the drugs and a year after starting the drugs. The authors of the study do say that the observed relationship between ED drugs and increased rates of HIV and STDs probably has more to do with the types of patients using ED drugs than the ED drugs themselves. Regardless, the investigators believe the study proves safer sex counseling should accompany every new prescription for an ED drug. Also this study showed that safer sex and HIV prevention messages should be directed to men over 40 as well as those younger than 40. At the very least, doctors should include an HIV and STD risk assessment prior to prescribing any ED drug.

More About ED and ED Drugs

• All You Need to Know About Viagra
• What Meds Can Cause ED
• Testosterone Replacement and ED

_Source

_{Barclay, L.; "Men Who Use Erectile Dysfunction Drugs Have Higher Rates of STDs"; Medscape Medical News; 8 Jul 2010.}