New data on the effect of beta-blockers on erectile function in arterial hypertension

Abstract

Erectile dysfunction (ED) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) are highly prevalent in men and share common risk factors and pathophysiological associations, such as endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and low plasma testosterone. ED is an independent and early predictor of future CVD. One of the classes of antihypertensive drugs associated with an increased risk of ED is beta-blockers, so the question of which beta-blocker has a lower risk of ED is relevant. The results of 6 well-controlled studies with a total of 1578 participants who received therapy with 5 different beta-blockers - atenolol, bisoprolol, carvedilol, metoprolol and nebivolol - were analyzed. The risk of ED when using the non-vasodilating non-cardioselective beta-blocker carvedilol was assumed to be 1. Based on the results of the analysis, it was found that nebivolol has the lowest risk factor for ED compared to other beta-blockers.