So-called sexual supplements seem to be everywhere today. Whether to improve libido, boost performance, or give men that little extra lift they need in the bedroom. There isn’t any lack of sexual supplements designed to enhance or improve your sex life.
Men in particular seem to be a major target for sexual supplement advertising. If you are a male of a certain age, you probably can’t open your email inbox without being bombarded by headlines offering everything from relief for Erectile Dysfunction (ED), to increased penis size. But is there any truth to their claims?
Sexual Supplements, Do Any Actually Work?
Sexual supplements in the US and abroad are a multi-billion dollar business. Aging baby boomers and men, in particular, are seeking alternatives to prescription pharmaceuticals for sexual wellness. There are several reasons for this. Cost is one, and also a perception that sexual supplements are “all-natural,” and therefore offer a healthier alternative to ED medication.
The idea that these so called male enhancement supplements are safe, because they are made from herbs and other “natural” ingredients, is where many have made terrible, even fatal, mistakes.
Anything that is sold as a “nutritional supplement,” is not regulated by the FDA. That means they can pretty much say whatever they want about what they can do to improve your size or performance. It also means they do not have to disclose the actual ingredients used. That means at best it does nothing. At worst, it means they could contain dangerous, even deadly ingredients.
CNN Investigates Sexual Supplements
A recent CNN investigative report found that nearly 80% of so-called male enhancement supplements actually contained prescription ED medication like Viagra.
That same CNN report stated that in 2012, a supplement called Rock Hard for Men was found to contain both a counterfeit version of the ED medication Cialis in combination with a diabetes drug called glyburide. Years earlier, that same combination of drugs was found in sexual supplements that had been linked to the deaths of dozens of men in China.
This does not mean that all sexual supplements are worthless, or dangerous. Consumers should approach the use of them with caution. As with any dietary supplements, stick with well-known or name brands that clearly list all of their ingredients. Beware outrageous claims, if something sounds too good to be true – you are probably right!
Real Treatments For Sexual Wellness
Rather than turning to your health food store or the internet for sexual supplements that may be unproven or dangerous, you should seek the advice of qualified, medically trained, sexual wellness professionals.
Only through proper diagnostics, can doctors get at the root of your sexual issues. Then they can prescribe the most effective treatments for your individual needs and lifestyle.
For example, testosterone deficiency in men could be causing sexual dysfunction. However, treatments for Low T, such as testosterone replacement therapy may be needed. For women, sexual issues such as lack of libido, pain, or decreased lubrication could also be the result of low hormones. One or more methods of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women may also be recommended.
If you are facing sexual issues, don’t be embarrassed. Man or woman, speak to your doctors. A decreased sex drive, or erectile dysfunction, could be a sign of some other more serious medical conditions.
Have you tried any so-called “male enhancement” products? What were your results?
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Dr. Alvaro J. Ocampo
Dr. Ocampo is an expert physician specializing in anti-aging, hormone therapy, pathology and environmental medicine. He received his medical degree from Columbia State Medical School in Montreal, Canada. Dr. Ocampo’s comprehensive medical experience includes working as medical officer for the U.S. Public Health Service and C.D.C, National Institute for Occupational Health, medical director for the U.S. Public Health Service, and as a Principal Investigator for American Pharmaceutical Companies.
