Erectile dysfunction medication can improve erections for many people, but ED can also be a sign of another health issue. Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, nerve problems, medicines, hormones, stress and other factors can contribute, so persistent symptoms deserve appropriate evaluation.
Key Takeaways
- Persistent ED can be associated with underlying health conditions.
- Common oral ED medicines improve blood flow during sexual stimulation.
- Nitrates and PDE5 inhibitor ED medicines can interact dangerously.
- An erection lasting more than four hours requires urgent medical attention.
Erectile dysfunction medication: start with the underlying cause
Erectile dysfunction means ongoing difficulty getting or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual activity. Occasional difficulty can happen to anyone, but persistent ED may justify a medical review. The evaluation can include cardiovascular risk factors, diabetes, medicines, psychological stressors and other health concerns.
Treating an underlying problem may improve sexual function and can be important for general health.
How common oral ED medicines work
Common oral ED medicines are phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. They improve the normal blood-flow response associated with sexual stimulation; they do not automatically create sexual desire or an erection in the absence of stimulation.
The medicines differ in how quickly they begin working and how long their effects can last. The appropriate option depends on health history, other medicines, side effects and personal circumstances.
Important interactions and precautions
Nitrate medicines used for chest pain can interact dangerously with common oral ED medicines and cause a severe drop in blood pressure. Other blood-pressure medicines and certain interacting drugs can also require special care. A complete medication list is important before treatment.
People with significant heart disease should discuss whether sexual activity and ED treatment are medically appropriate for them.
Side effects and urgent symptoms
Common adverse effects can include headache, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, dizziness or back pain, depending on the medicine. Sudden vision or hearing symptoms require prompt medical attention. An erection lasting more than four hours is an emergency because prolonged priapism can cause permanent injury.
ED treatment is broader than tablets
Other options can include vacuum devices, injectable or urethral medicines, counseling, lifestyle changes, treatment of underlying conditions, and surgery in selected cases. The best approach depends on the cause of ED and the person’s preferences and health.
Related Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Do ED medicines increase sexual desire?
Common PDE5 inhibitor medicines support the erectile response to sexual stimulation; they do not directly create sexual desire.
Can ED medication be used with nitroglycerin?
Common oral PDE5 inhibitors should not be combined with nitrate medicines because of the risk of dangerously low blood pressure.
When should ED be medically evaluated?
Persistent ED, new symptoms, cardiovascular concerns or medication-related problems should be discussed with a healthcare professional.