Final answer:
Antidepressants, particularly SSRIs, are the drug class most likely to cause sexual dysfunction like erectile dysfunction in males. Drugs such as PDE5 inhibitors can treat ED effectively; however, individuals with heart conditions should use them cautiously.
Step-by-step explanation:
The drug class most likely to cause sexual dysfunction in males, particularly erectile dysfunction (ED), is antidepressants. Antidepressants, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are known to affect sexual function by interrupting the vasodilation pathway that is essential for achieving an erection. Disorders of the male reproductive system, like ED, can stem from the use of these medications as they may result in low testosterone concentrations and affect the psychological state, both of which are crucial for normal erectile function.
Moreover, smoking is a significant cause of ED due to the narrowing of arteries, which also affects penile vasculature. Additionally, drugs like PDE5 inhibitors, such as sildenafil (marketed as Viagra®), have been developed to counteract these effects and are effective in treating approximately 70 to 85 percent of ED cases. Nonetheless, it is important for men with cardiac conditions to consult their physicians before using such medications to avoid severe side effects.