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High blood pressure and sex: Overcome the challenges

Erectile dysfunction drugs and high blood pressure

Men considering medications for erectile dysfunction should check with their doctors first. Erectile dysfunction drugs include sildenafil (Viagra), vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn) and tadalafil (Cialis). The pill forms are generally considered safe for men with high blood pressure who are in otherwise good health.

Erectile dysfunction drugs aren't recommended for men with severe cardiovascular disease or for men with high blood pressure who have difficulties with urination or have other lower urinary tract problems. Never take erectile dysfunction drugs with nitrates, which are used to treat chest pain. Doing so can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.