A male who uses marijuana (cannabis) may develop erectile dysfunction.
Possible mechanisms: endothelial dysfunction; endocannabinoid relaxation of erectile tissue
Risk factors for erectile dysfunction:
(1) frequent and heavy marijuana use
(2) use of alcohol or other drugs
(3) depression
(4) transient decrease in testosterone
The diagnosis requires exclusion of other causes.
The diagnosis of marijuana-associated erectile dysfunction is supported if the ED decreases with abstinence from marijuana use.
Other effects of marijuana:
(1) effects on spermatozoa with decreased fertility
(2) increased risk for sexually-transmitted disease
(3) inconsistent contraceptive use
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Specialty: Urology, Toxicology
