What Is Stamina Rx?

Stamina-RX is a dietary supplement made by Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals and is for men to combat erectile dysfunction. It is available at many natural food stores and supplement stores.

Made with a proprietary blend of herbal and natural ingredients, Stamina-RX claims to promote blood flow and increase sexual stimulation.

It must be noted that the FDA issued a warning in 2003 against taking Stamina RX, as some blends may have contained tadalafil, a medication that may cause a drastic drop in blood pressure.

The How it Works page on the Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals website does not list tadalafil among the ingredients in Stamina-Rx; however, it is advisable to consult with a physician prior to taking Stamina-RX.

L-Arginine

According to the Mayo Clinic, L-arginine is a semi-essential amino acid needed for urea--a waste product. It is semi-essential because the body makes enough required by the kidneys.

In Stamina-RX, l-arginine is used as a vasodilator, to relax the blood vessels. Erectile dysfunction is normally caused by a decrease in blood flow, and L-arginine aids in stronger blood flow and removing any blockages.

L-arginine is safe for short-term use, no longer than six months, and in a low dose amount for adults.

Epimedium and Yohimbe Extracts

In traditional Chinese medicine, epimedium leaf extract is used to stimulate the production of an androgen hormone and to reduce male impotence. Epimedium leaf extract is created by steaming the leaves of the Epimedium pimedium grandiflorum, or horney goat weed plant. The extract aids in liver, kidney and reproductive health, especially in men.

According to Medline Plus, a National Institutes of Health website, yohimbe extract comes from the Pausinystalia yohimbe tree. Yohime extract used in Stamina-RX is for its ability to regulate blood pressure and its potential as a sexual stimulant. While Medline Plus lists several studies that find yohime extract increases sexual response, the amounts needed and results are not conclusive.

Gamma Amino Butyric Acid

Gamma amino butyric acid (GABA), according to Rxlist.com, is an chemical made in the brain and used for elevating mood and regulating blood pressure.

GABA works by blocking neurotransmissions, thereby reducing anxious feelings and thoughts. Its use in Stamina-RX is two-fold. The first is to ensure proper blood flow, and the second is to reduce over-excitment before or during sexual intercourse.

Aphrodisiac Extracts

Two final herbs listed among the ingredients in Stamina-RX are aphrodisiacs used to increase male sexual potency and response. They are cnidium monnier extract and xanthoparmelia scabrosa extract. Both cnidium monnier extract and xanthoparmelia scabrosa extract increase blood flow. While both have been touted to increase erections, no conclusive evidence shows this to be true.

Cnidium extract has traces of Coumadin-like properties, so it is best to consult with a physician if currently taking any blood thinning medications.