What's The Link Between Magnesium And Erectile Dysfunction?

How Does An Erection Occur Normally?

During sex arousal, nitric oxide (NO), released by the inner lining of the vascular cells, induces a quick flow of blood to your penis to achieve and maintain a firm erection. Thus, erection depends on the release of nitric oxide.

What Is The Significance Of Magnesium?

Magnesium is an essential micronutrient that plays a vital role in almost every body function. An adult should consume 400-420 mg of magnesium every day. However, it is present in most food items in small quantities.

People at risk of magnesium deficiency can trigger high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. All these conditions contribute to the development of erectile dysfunction (ED). Hence, managing these conditions effectively can help in getting relief from ED symptoms.

What Is The Connection Between Magnesium And Erectile Dysfunction?

Magnesium plays a crucial role in the erection process, where it is involved in nitric oxide metabolism. The reduction of magnesium levels in the blood inhibits the release of nitric oxide.

A 2018 research study reported a lower level of magnesium in blood among patients with erectile dysfunction.

A 2017 study revealed that erectile dysfunction is connected to a lower level of magnesium content in blood in elders with moderate to severely reduced kidney function.

Is It Safe To Take Viagra (Or Other ED Medications) While Consuming Magnesium Supplements?

Doctors usually recommend Viagra (Sildenafil) for treating erectile dysfunction.

In a normal cyclic guanosine monophosphate (c-GMP) pathway, the release of nitric oxide in the penis stimulates guanylyl cyclase to trigger the production of c-GMP, which results in relaxation of smooth muscles followed by erection. However, PDE5 enzyme degrades cGMP.

A 2005 study reported that Viagra inhibits the PDE-5 enzyme in the body and boosts nitric oxide levels in the penile tissues. This step potentiates the c-GMP pathway followed by c-GMP production and erection.

A 2017 study reported that magnesium plays a crucial role in the erection process through the metabolism of nitric oxide. Furthermore, it improves the response of PDE-5 inhibitors like Viagra used for treating ED problems.

Thus, magnesium supplementation does not treat erectile dysfunction instantly. However, consuming magnesium supplements for a prolonged duration can improve general health including sexual health as well.

Make sure to inform your doctor in case you are consuming magnesium supplements before starting any erectile dysfunction (ED) medications.

After checking your medical history, lab reports, and other ongoing medications, the doctor will let you know whether it is safe to consume magnesium supplements or just magnesium-rich foods are enough.

In case you are diagnosed with magnesium deficiency, the doctor will recommend the right supplements depending on your condition.

The Takeaway

As we've covered in this article, magnesium promotes nitric oxide secretion in order to improve erectile dysfunction (ED).

However, talk to your doctor before consuming magnesium supplements for ED treatment. Usually, doctors recommend supplements only if you have a magnesium deficiency. Or else, just magnesium-rich foods are enough.

Make sure to verify that magnesium consumption will not cross-interact with your regular medications. In case you are already having magnesium supplements, inform the doctor.

If you are experiencing erectile dysfunction, it is advisable that you consult a doctor. Here at Noah, doctors on our platform are best equipped with the knowledge to help you ascertain the root cause of your erectile dysfunction. They will be able to advise you on the best treatment suited for you, and can also prescribe you the right medication should you need it.