Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects men at different ages. Some have temporary trouble, others need ongoing care. The good news: many safe, proven treatments are available—from pills to devices to simple lifestyle changes.
Knowing the cause helps pick the right treatment. Common causes include blood flow problems, nerve damage, hormones, medications, and stress. If ED started after a new drug, a check with your doctor can fix it. If it developed slowly with age or health issues like diabetes or heart disease, medical treatment plus lifestyle change often works best.
PDE5 drugs are the most common first step. This group includes sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Stendra). They help blood reach the penis and make erection easier when you are sexually stimulated.
Choose by timing and how long you want it to last. Sildenafil and vardenafil usually work in 30–60 minutes and last 4–6 hours. Tadalafil can take up to two hours but lasts up to 36 hours. Avanafil often works faster with fewer side effects for some men. Side effects can include headache, flushing, indigestion, and nasal congestion. Never combine PDE5 inhibitors with nitrates (for chest pain) — that can dangerously lower blood pressure.
If pills are not an option, there are effective alternatives. Vacuum pumps create an erection by drawing blood into the penis, then a ring keeps it in place. Penile injections deliver medication directly into the shaft for reliable results. Urethral suppositories work for some men. For low testosterone, replacement therapy may help but needs blood tests and monitoring. Counseling or sex therapy helps when anxiety or relationship issues play a role.
Buying medications online? Be careful. Use licensed pharmacies with a clear address and verified reviews. Any site that sells prescription drugs without asking for a prescription is risky. Compare prices, check shipping policies, and look for secure payment pages. If a price seems too low, it might be counterfeit or expired medicine.
Start low and slow with any medication. Track side effects and talk to your doctor before mixing ED drugs with other medicines. Improve sleep, lose excess weight, quit smoking, and cut back on heavy drinking—these habits often improve erections without extra cost.
When to see a doctor: if ED is sudden, painful, linked with fainting, or lasts more than a few weeks, seek immediate care. Tests may include blood sugar, cholesterol, testosterone, and heart exam. Your doctor may suggest a trial with one PDE5 drug, adjust dose, or refer you to a urologist. Keep a symptom diary—notes about when ED happens, medicines you take, and alcohol use help your clinician. Open talk with partner improves outcomes and reduces stress.
You deserve effective care—ask questions until you understand options and decide.
