Erectile Dysfunction: Treatment Options and Safety Guide

Good Wellness Education

Understanding erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) means having difficulty getting or keeping an erection that is firm enough for sexual activity. Occasional difficulty can happen to many adults, but persistent problems deserve attention because ED can be associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hormone problems, medication effects, neurological conditions, stress and anxiety.

Common contributing factors

Physical contributors can include high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, smoking, vascular disease, nerve disorders and some medicines. Psychological contributors can include anxiety, depression, relationship stress and performance concerns. Sleep problems and lifestyle factors can also affect sexual function. A healthcare professional can review the overall picture rather than assuming there is one cause.

When to talk with a healthcare professional

Consider discussing ED with a clinician when the problem is persistent, bothersome, new or associated with other symptoms. A clinician may ask about medical history, medicines, cardiovascular risk, mental health and sexual history. An evaluation may also consider blood pressure, blood tests or other causes of sexual dysfunction.

Common treatment approaches

Treatment can include lifestyle changes, management of underlying health conditions, counseling when appropriate, oral medicines, vacuum erection devices, injections, implants or other approaches. Not every option is appropriate for every person.

Oral ED medicines

Sildenafil, tadalafil and vardenafil are examples of medicines in the phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor class. They support the body's natural erection response when sexual stimulation occurs. They do not create sexual desire and are not a substitute for evaluation of an underlying health problem.

Sildenafil

Sildenafil is the active ingredient in Viagra and other products. It is commonly taken before anticipated sexual activity according to the prescribed directions. The appropriate dose can be affected by other medicines and health conditions.

Tadalafil

Tadalafil is the active ingredient in Cialis and other products. Its longer duration of action is one reason clinicians may discuss it differently from shorter-acting options. Dosing approaches vary by approved use and individual circumstances.

Vardenafil

Vardenafil is the active ingredient in Levitra and other products. Like sildenafil and tadalafil, it can support erectile function in appropriate adults. Selection depends on medical history, medicines, timing, tolerability and individual circumstances.

Important safety considerations

PDE5 inhibitors can interact with other medicines. Nitrates used for chest pain are an especially important example because combining them with PDE5 inhibitors can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Certain alpha-blockers, blood-pressure medicines and other drugs may also require special consideration. People with significant heart disease or other relevant conditions should receive individualized advice before treatment.

Side effects and urgent symptoms

Common side effects can include headache, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, dizziness or changes in vision, depending on the medicine. Seek urgent medical care for serious or unexpected symptoms. A prolonged or painful erection is a medical emergency.

Questions to ask your doctor

Useful questions include: What might be causing my ED? Should I be evaluated for another health condition? Which treatments are appropriate for me? What strength should I use? Which medicines or supplements should I avoid? What side effects should prompt a call?

Using online product information responsibly

A product page can help you understand terminology, active ingredients and the range of strengths in a catalog. It should not be used to choose a dose independently. Good Wellness strength selectors are interface features that display the corresponding price; they are not dosing recommendations.

Consult your doctor

If you are experiencing persistent ED or considering medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist. A qualified professional can review your health history, current medicines and treatment goals and explain the options that may be appropriate for you.