HEALTH: EXPERT WARNS AGAINST PROLONGED USE OF SEXUAL ENHANCEMENT DRUGS
A Consultant Urologist at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, Dr. Ahmed Umar, has raised alarm over the dangers of prolonged and indiscriminate use of sexual enhancement drugs, warning that they could lead to severe damage to vital organs.
Speaking during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Gombe on Monday, Umar stressed that using these drugs without proper medical supervision poses significant health risks.
The warning followed a NAN survey revealing a growing trend in the use of sexual enhancement drugs across Gombe State. The survey, conducted in various suburbs of the metropolis, noted an increase in the over-the-counter purchase of such products.
Pharmaceutical shop owners and traditional medicine dealers attributed the surge to the festive season, stating that celebratory moods often heighten sexual activity.
The survey revealed that in communities such as Yelenguruza, BCGA, Nasarawo, and Tumfure, nearly 50% of male customers visiting pharmaceutical shops between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. were buying sexual enhancement pills. Similarly, traditional medicine dealers in major markets reported that seven out of ten male buyers sought sex-enhancement products, while a majority of female customers purchased herbal remedies for infections.
Dr. Umar clarified that while sexual enhancement drugs can be safe when used appropriately and under medical guidance, their misuse and prolonged use at high doses can cause irreversible damage to critical organs, including the liver and kidneys, leading to long-term health complications.
“By the time you start having liver or kidney problems, organ transplants can cost upwards of N20 million.
“Even after a transplant, you would need to take lifelong medications to support your immune system,” Umar warned.
He also mentioned the risk of priapism, a condition characterised by a prolonged and painful erection lasting for hours.
“If untreated, priapism can cause permanent damage to the penis and may require surgical intervention.”
Umar strongly advised Nigerians, particularly the youth, to avoid using sexual enhancement drugs without a doctor’s prescription, as misuse could have life-threatening consequences.
“Some of these drugs should not be combined with others, and doing so can lead to severe side effects such as heart attack or stroke.
“This is especially dangerous for individuals with heart conditions, as drugs containing nitrites can lower blood pressure.
“If you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction, always consult a physician instead of resorting to self-medication,” he cautioned.
The urologist also recommended lifestyle changes to improve sexual performance, including quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and reducing sugar intake, as these factors negatively affected sexual health.
Additionally, regular exercise and a balanced diet rich in nutrients were advised, to enhance blood circulation and overall sexual stamina.
Umar, therefore, urged Nigerians to seek medical advice before using any sex-enhancement products and prioritise their health through responsible lifestyle choices.
NAN