The use and abuse of blue 'sex pills' have become a growing concern, prompting warnings about their dangers. While these medications, commonly associated with men, were initially developed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), their misuse and the availability of unlicensed versions have raised red flags within the medical community.

Viagra, the well-known blue pill, was approved in 1998 as the first effective oral therapy for ED. Other drugs like Tadalafil and Vardenafil have since been approved and work similarly to Viagra. While sex pills are primarily marketed towards men, there is a rising interest among women in treating low sexual desire.

However, the misuse of these drugs has become a cause for concern. The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK) has warned the public against using these pills without the guidance of a qualified medical practitioner. The use of such medicines without prior medical evaluation can lead to harmful effects, as cautioned by the PSK in a statement issued in January 2021.

Sex pills can be divided into two categories: licensed and non-licensed. Licensed sex pills are prescribed by doctors and have undergone rigorous testing and approval. Non-licensed sex pills, including herbal products, are sold over the counter and lack proper regulation. These non-licensed pills often contain unproven ingredients and their safety and effectiveness are questionable.

Doctors stress that if individuals do not have a genuine sex-related problem and are simply looking to enhance their sex life, sex pills are not the appropriate solution. Lifestyle changes, counseling or therapy, and open communication with partners can often lead to significant improvements in one's sexual experiences.

While occasional difficulties in achieving or maintaining an erection are common and may not indicate ED, certain risk factors can contribute to the development of more severe problems. Factors such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, obesity, diabetes, depression, anxiety, and prostate cancer can increase the likelihood of experiencing erectile dysfunction.

Prolonged use of male enhancement pills, particularly in young men, has been linked to difficulties in achieving and maintaining erections without relying on the drugs. Side effects of sex pills can include headaches, dizziness, nasal and chest congestion, body aches, vision problems, and flushed skin. Severe side effects include priapism (prolonged erection lasting more than four hours), sudden changes in hearing, and severe vision loss.

It is crucial for individuals with underlying medical conditions and those taking other medications to exercise caution when considering sex pills, as they may be more susceptible to severe side effects. The misuse of these medications can have serious health implications, emphasizing the importance of seeking proper medical advice before using such treatments.