First there were drugs like Viagra and Cialis to assist with erectile disfunction.  Now, it seems, there is a “stiff” coffee that can mirror the same effect, only, the federal government is warning men that that may not be a good thing.

Coffee has been associated with a number of health benefits, but now one brand – Stiff Bull Herbal Coffee – is creating an effect on guys that has drawn the attention of, and a warning from, the Food and Drug Administration.

As reported by Thrillist, a warning by the FDA claims the coffee brand contains a “hidden ingredient” known as desmethyl carbodenafil, which is structurally similar to sildenafil, the potent active ingredient in Viagra, which has been approved by the FDA as a prescription remedy for ED.

The ingredient could interact with nitrates found in other prescription drugs like nitroglycerin and lower blood pressure to dangerous levels. Men who suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease or high cholesterol often take nitrates, which some studies have identified as harmful, in and of themselves. The FDA is advising health care professionals and patients to report any adverse reactions or side effects that are related to the use of the product to the agency’s MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.

What’s interesting, if not outright humorous, about the FDA’s warning is the agency’s own admission that the “hidden” ingredient within Stiff Bull Herbal Coffee is the same thing that is in a drug the agency has already approved. Granted, Pfizer, the maker of Viagra, also warns against taking it if you’re already on nitrates because of the danger of bottoming out blood pressure as well as the danger behind a prolonged erection lasting four hours or more.

But the FDA may really just be protecting its turf – as well as a major pharmaceutical company that spends millions on lobbying and donating to political campaigns. It’s hard to say, but it’s a safe bet that Stiff Bull isn’t a contributor.

On the company’s web site, it makes no, er, bones, about what it’s product is designed to do. Billing itself as “The Relationship Saver,” the company says its herbal coffee is “made for adults who want to have longer lasting more fulfilling sex.” A derivative of the coffee was even featured on an episode of “The Dr. Oz Show.”

According to the directions, you simply add ½ a packet into one cup of water, stir, and drink. The rest will take care of itself.

The company does advise that you don’t exceed one packet a day. For most people, judging from the testimonials on site, that’s plenty.

Sources:

NaturalNews.com

Thrillist.com

FDA.gov

NaturalNews.com

Viagra.com

OpenSecrets.org

YouTube.com