Medically reviewed by: Thomas Fischer (Pharmacist). This article has been written according to strict guidelines and medical standards.
Medically reviewed by: Thomas Fischer (Pharmacist)
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is more common than many realize. Almost all men will experience ED at some point in their life. ED can be mild or be a more challenging problem. Doctors are willing to talk with you about erectile dysfunction.
Erectile Dysfunction Treatments In An Overview
There are several types of medications to treat ED. Pills are taken orally, injections, penile suppositories, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), and surgical implants are all treatments for ED.
Oral Medicines
Oral medications are the most commonly used treatment. It is important to know that taking the medication will not automatically result in an erection. Sexual stimulation, along with the medication, is what makes the drug work. ED medications are not aphrodisiacs.
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Injections
Other medications to treat ED, such as alprostadil and phentolamine, are administered by injection into the base of the penis. Pain from the injection is minor since the needle used is very fine. The injections create an erection that lasts for no longer than an hour.
Suppositories
A suppository containing alprostadil is inserted into the penis in the urethra. A unique applicator is used for the insertion. Erections from this treatment can start within ten minutes and can last between thirty and sixty minutes.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT)
Gels, injections, skin or mouth patches, orally disintegrating tablets, and implants are all ways that testosterone levels can be increased. The testosterone is absorbed into the bloodstream without having any adverse effects on the liver.
Penile Implant
Recovery from penile implant surgery is about one to two weeks. The incision should heal within the first week following surgery. The penile implant will not be activated during healing.
The implant will be activated by your physician when he determines that healing is complete. Instructions on how to use the device will be given. It can take time for a patient to become comfortable with the process, and communicating with your doctor is vital to the success of this type of treatment for ED.
What Is the Best Erectile Dysfunction Medicine?
There are four main medications available to treat ED. Each person has unique makeup and reacts to medicines in different manners. If side effects are severe with one, consider talking to your physician about trying a different drug.
- Viagra - contains the active ingredient Sildenafil and is the most well known of the medications. Users find it best to take on an empty stomach. Take about an hour before you expect to engage in sexual activity, and the effect can last for approximately 4-6 hours. The generic version works in the same manner.
- Cialis - The active ingredient Tadalafil lasts longer than Viagra or Levitra (up to 36 hours). This means that any side effects experienced can last a bit longer. It can be taken with food, but alcohol can reduce effectiveness. There is a generic version that acts the same.
- Cialis has been approved for use by men who have an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia). This medication has also shown to be effective in improving urine flow.
- Stendra - The active ingredient in this medication is Avanafil. The effects can be felt faster than other medicines. It can work between 15 - 30 minutes and can last approximately 6 hours and can have a lower impact on blood pressure.
- Stendra is a bit less popular than the other medications and is not covered by many insurance providers. Currently, there is no generic version of Stendra. Any websites advertising these are counterfeit.
- Levitra - The active ingredient is Vardenafil. Like Viagra, users take it about 60 minutes before sexual activity, and it can last between 4-6 hours. The medication can be taken with food.
- Levitra has shown to be more effective for those with diabetes than other erectile dysfunction medications. There is a generic version of the drug, but it is not as widely available.
How Do Erectile Dysfunction Medications Work?
Oral medications are called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. They block the enzyme PDE5 from attacking the protein, cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which enhances the effects of nitric oxide. This is a natural chemical in the body that relaxes the penile muscles. Once this occurs, blood flows to the penis when it is sexually stimulated, creating an erection.
Injections involve combining two or three medications such as Bimix, Trimix, or Papaverine. A thin needle is used to inject the medicine into your penis. Blood flow to the penis is enhanced, resulting in an erection. Training is provided by your doctor so that the injections can be done safely and effectively.
How Effective Are Erectile Dysfunction Medications?
As mentioned, every person’s response to medications is different. The reality is that what may work well for one person may not have any effect on another. Oral medications for ED are found to be the most helpful for men.
While many men are reluctant to undergo a physical examination, this is an important step. Doctors may discover that a different issue is causing erectile dysfunction. The treatment needed may be different than just a prescription.
While some can last for up to six hours after taking the medication, some can last longer. It depends on what fits your needs. Health conditions and lifestyle situations also come in to play when deciding which one is right for you.
What is the Safest Medication for Erectile Dysfunction?
While no medication is without risk, oral medications are the standard treatment, and often the first method offered to men with ED. All treatments are safe, but each comes with possible complications depending on the user and their level of health.
Most of the drugs have a warning for use with nitrate-based heart and blood pressure medications. This needs to be discussed with your doctor to find the medicine and dosage that is safest for you. Other health concerns may also come into play when choosing a medication.
The challenge for users of any prescription medicines is that they can cause side effects; these range from mild to severe. This is a safety aspect that must be considered before taking any.
Side Effects Compared
Experiencing some side effects are frequently part of using any sort of medication, and most are not severe. Side effects that are commonly encountered with ED medications are:
Oral medications:
- Headache
- Flushing
- Upset stomach
- Nasal congestion
- UTI
- Vision problems
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Rash
Injections:
It is important to note that with penile injections, a condition called priapism can happen. Priapism is an erection that lasts too long. It is recommended that Pseudoephedrine HCl (Sudafed) be kept in case of priapism. This medication can help treat that problem. If you suffer from heart disease, discuss with your doctor before using Pseudoephedrine HCI.
Suppositories:
Possible side effects of penile suppositories are minor bleeding or spotting from the penis, groin/testicle/penis pain, dizziness, swelling, or rapid heartbeat. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if any of these side effects persist.
A female partner could have vaginal itching or burning when a man uses this type of treatment. Serious side effects for a man are fainting, trouble breathing, severe dizziness, rash, or itching. Seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy:
Fluid retention is a common side effect of TRT. It can cause enlarged breasts and prostate, cause acne, lower fertility, increase sleep apnea symptoms, and increase red blood cells in the body.
Surgery/Implants:
Many side effects will resolve on their own as healing continues. Some of those may include:
- Prolonged swelling
- Hematomas (a collection of blood in tissues surrounding an injury or surgery site) around the pump
- Infection
Any side effect that does not resolve on its own should be brought to the attention of your primary care doctor or surgeon.
Contraindications and ED Medicines
ED medication isn’t for everyone. This is why a consultation with a medical professional is a must. Contraindications can be dangerous and must be considered before taking this medicine. Men who need to take blood pressure medications, nitroglycerine for chest pain, tamsulosin hydrochloride (Flomax) for enlarged prostate, and alpha-blockers for enlarged prostate or high blood pressure should not use ED medications.
If you are at risk for heart attack or stroke, ED medications can cause arteries in the heart, brain, and penis to widen. Cardiac medications with nitrates are not safe to use with ED medications. They can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure and can be especially hazardous if you have had a heart attack, stroke, or arrhythmia in the previous six months.
Congestive heart failure, low blood pressure, uncontrolled high blood pressure, and unstable angina are health conditions that it is necessary to be cautious before using ED medications. Discuss your symptoms with your physician before using ED medications if you have these conditions.
Men who use medication to treat high blood pressure may find that they contribute to ED. Your doctor may be able to adjust medications to help alleviate the symptoms. Alpha-blockers often used in the treatment of urinary issues can also lower blood pressure. It is crucial to make sure that these medications are taken at least four hours apart from one another.
If you are receiving treatment for cancer, speak with your doctor before using any medications for ED. Men who have severe liver or kidney disease should not take ED medications.
Our tip: How to buy ED treatments with online prescription
Best Medicine For Erectile Dysfunction Without Side Effects
As all prescription medication comes with the risk of side effects, there is only one solution. The best medicine without side effects to treat ED is prevention.
Non-Prescription Erectile Dysfunction Treatments
For men suffering from ED looking for alternative solutions, other than prescription medication can consider these:
Exercise
Moderate to vigorous aerobic activities have been found to improve ED. Taking a brisk walk for 30 minutes a day, three to four times a week, may reduce the cause ED. A study from the UK showed that pelvic muscle exercises helped 40% of men regain normal erectile function. Also known as Kegel exercises, they improve the strength of the pelvic floor muscles.
Counseling
Psychological counseling for those whose ED is caused by stress, depression, anxiety, or relationship issues can be helpful. Identifying the cause of anxiety or other emotional issues affecting your ability to have an erection is very important. Finding solutions with the help of a counselor and learning how to take back control of your body can eliminate ED.
Supplements
Alternative, and over the counter treatments are available by the millions. A website selling natural products to treat ED can look well put together and legitimate. A careful review of the site is essential to health safety. It is vital to check with your doctor before using any supplements.
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What is the Best Over The Counter Treatment?
Some treatments that are available over the counter that have shown some success in the treatment of ED are:
- Propionyl-L-carnitine - a naturally occurring chemical in the body. It can affect blood flow and circulatory problems. It can also enhance the effects of Viagra.
- Yohimbe - a supplement that promotes the production of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter chemical in the brain. It can improve orgasm function and ejaculation.
- L-arginine - an amino acid that can improve the blood flow to the penis. It can be combined with other treatments such as Yohimbe, pycnogenol, and glutamate.
- Ginseng - This is a long-standing alternative treatment. Korean red ginseng has received particular interest in the treatment of mild to moderate ED.
Can Erectile Dysfunction Medications Be Purchased Online?
It is essential to discuss ED with your doctor so that the right treatment for you can be chosen. It can become dangerous to take ED medications or natural supplements while treating other health conditions, so men must get the correct treatment.
Keep in mind that your health insurance may cover all or part of the cost of the medication. Check to see if the pharmacy accepts your coverage. Some manufacturers offer discount programs, and there are coupon websites that can help get the best price for your medications.
To get the proper medications, look for the signs of a legitimate online pharmacy. These are:
- Requiring a prescription from your doctor
- Medications available are FDA approved
- Containers are clearly labeled with the dosage and instructions to take the medication
- A US phone number to call if you have problems or questions
- The pharmacy is national and state-licensed and has a physical US address
- The pharmacist is licensed and available to answer questions
- A clearly stated privacy policy to protect your personal and payment information
Once you have decided on an online pharmacy to order your medications from, you will need to register with the website and provide a copy of the prescription given to you by your doctor. Ordering, payment methods, and shipping information are unique to each site, and instructions will be outlined on each site. There may be a webchat function or other contact methods listed to assist you if you have any problems while ordering your medication.
What are the Risks of Purchasing Erectile Dysfunction Medications Online?
Searching online to buy erectile dysfunction medication will bring up a plethora of websites. There are nearly 22 million websites that advertise popular treatments and alternatives that promise “natural” remedies to treat ED.
Purchasing ED medication online can be risky. It is estimated that more than half of the treatments sold online are fake or contain harmful ingredients. Online medicines that claim to treat ED can be dangerous with irregular dosages or interact with other medications you may be taking. The products may look safe because they are sold with labels that suggest the FDA approves them for treating ED.
Some contain little to no actual medication but are full of harmful substances that may be dangerous to your health. To protect your health, do your research carefully and make sure that you purchase from legitimate, licensed providers only.
Ordering ED Treatments with Online Prescriptions - How it Works
When you have chosen an online pharmacy that meets all the safety requirements of a good pharmacy, you will need to create an account with them. Procedures do vary by site, but most are quite easy to create an account on.
The telehealth pharmacy will have a medical professional available to assess whether ED medication is right for you. Firstly you’ll need to complete an online form. You’ll answer questions about your current medical condition, any medicines you’re taking, and any pre-existing conditions.
Next, the doctor will contact you by phone. Some states require that this call is in the form of a video-chat. They may have further questions for you and will provide information about the medicine they plan to offer you.
Once you have a prescription, it is easy to order medications from an online pharmacy. The script can be submitted by the doctor right from their office. Alternatively, instructions on how to submit your prescription will be on the website.
Prescriptions are sent out quickly as soon as they are filled. The number of refills available will be listed on the site once the order is filled. Reminder services are often accessible to help manage your prescriptions effectively.
Online pharmacies are also a useful information resource. The pharmacist will make sure that you understand how and when to take your medication. Health articles and videos on a variety of health subjects are often provided on pharmacy websites.
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