How do ED medications work? Common oral erectile dysfunction medicines called PDE5 inhibitors improve the normal blood-flow response to sexual stimulation.
How do ED medications work? PDE5 inhibitors support blood flow
Sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil and avanafil belong to the PDE5 inhibitor class. They help preserve signaling that relaxes smooth muscle and increases blood flow in the penis during sexual stimulation.
They do not create sexual desire
PDE5 inhibitors support the physical erectile response; they do not directly create libido or automatically produce an erection without sexual stimulation.
How the medicines differ
The medicines differ in timing, duration, food effects, interactions and adverse-effect profiles. A medicine that fits one person’s schedule or health history may not be the best option for another.
The nitrate interaction
Nitrate medicines used for angina can interact dangerously with PDE5 inhibitors and cause a severe drop in blood pressure. This is one of the most important safety checks before oral ED treatment.
Other treatment options
If tablets are ineffective or unsuitable, options can include vacuum devices, injectable medicines, urethral therapy or other treatments depending on the cause.
Urgent symptoms
An erection lasting more than four hours requires urgent medical care. Sudden vision or hearing changes also warrant prompt medical attention.
Nitrates are a major interaction concern
PDE5 inhibitors can cause a dangerous fall in blood pressure when combined with nitrate medicines such as nitroglycerin. Anyone who uses nitrates or has been told to avoid sexual activity because of cardiovascular disease should discuss that history before using an ED medicine. Other blood-pressure medicines and health conditions can also affect treatment decisions.
Know the symptoms that need urgent care
An erection lasting four hours or longer requires urgent medical attention because prolonged priapism can damage tissue. Sudden vision or hearing changes and severe cardiovascular symptoms also require prompt evaluation. Product-specific patient information explains which serious symptoms are associated with the medicine being used.
Related Information
Sources & References
- MedlinePlus — Erectile Dysfunction treatment
- MedlinePlus — Sildenafil
- MedlinePlus — Erectile Dysfunction
