Enhancement pills: Growing health risk for men

Male enhancement pills are gaining fast popularity across Zimbabwe as men seek to improve libido, stamina and sexual performance — yet health experts warn that the trend is quietly fuelling a rise in life-threatening complications, some of them fatal. Despite growing reports of men collapsing or dying during intercourse after consuming unregulated stimulants, the sale of sex boosters remains brisk, particularly on the streets and informal markets where regulation is weak or non-existent.

Doctors and traditional practitioners have expressed concern that side effects associated with the unmonitored use of these products are often overlooked. Many of the substances, both pharmaceutical and herbal, increase blood flow and stimulate the nervous system — effects that can be dangerous when doses are excessive or when users already suffer from underlying health conditions.

Traditional leader and healthcare practitioner, Headman Talkmore Mupambawahle, said while traditional remedies for male vitality have been used for generations, misuse has become a major concern.

"Across many cultures, men have relied on herbs to boost sexual energy and stamina long before modern medicine. Roots like Yohimbe, Mukombero and other plant-based remedies are designed to improve blood circulation, increase libido and enhance vitality," he said. "These herbs can be powerful. Anything strong enough to affect the body can also bring dangerous side effects, especially if taken in high doses, mixed with alcohol or used alongside prescription drugs."

Headman Mupambawahle warned that uncontrolled consumption of sexual stimulants can permanently damage sexual organs and put vital organs at risk.

"When things go wrong, the risks are high. Severe chest pain, irregular heartbeat and sharp drops in blood pressure require urgent medical attention. Priapism — an erection that lasts longer than four hours — can cause permanent damage if not treated quickly," he added.

He further noted that the rise in cheap, unregulated pills poses a serious threat as many contain unknown chemicals that may damage the heart, liver or kidneys. Regular dependency on stimulants, he said, may also erode natural sexual confidence.

Medical practitioner Dr Stewart Karembo emphasised that older men face especially high risk and should use only medically approved products obtained through proper consultation.

"When it comes to stimulants like tadalafil, older men must be extra cautious," he said. "Underlying health conditions increase risk, and professional guidance should always come first."

Zimbabwe National Traditional Healers Association (Zinatha) president, Mr George Kandiero, urged users to seek treatment only from registered traditional healers rather than unverified street vendors.

"Traditional medicine must come from registered practitioners. Buying from unregistered people leaves patients with no recourse if things go wrong," Kandiero said. "Some men suffer from conditions like diabetes, low libido or low sperm count, and these require proper diagnosis before any herbs are prescribed."

As demand continues to surge, experts warn that awareness, regulation and responsible use are urgently needed to prevent further deaths and long-term health damage. Health authorities are encouraging men experiencing sexual difficulties to seek professional guidance instead of self-medicating with unknown substances — a decision that could mean the difference between recovery and tragedy.