Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the persistent inability to develop or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. It can lead to a range of health and social problems.
There are several options for treating ED, including diet, exercise and healthy lifestyle choices. Some treatments also involve psychotherapy. For a full treatment plan, talk with your doctor.
Intraurethral medications
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common sexual problem that may occur with age. It is caused by changes in a man’s testosterone levels, which naturally decline with age. Other factors include alcohol, smoking, medications and certain underlying health problems.
A man with ED can try oral drugs called phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE-5) inhibitors. These medicines increase the chemicals that allow the penis to become and stay erect.
In addition to oral medications, some men can use an intraurethral medication, which is a suppository inserted through the urethra. This medication, which is called MUSE, is absorbed from the suppository into the urethra and then into the erectile tissues to create an erection.
This treatment is often used in patients who do not respond well to oral medications. MUSE is available in 125, 250, 500 and 1000 mcg dosages.
Penile self-injections
Penile self-injections are a popular form of erectile dysfunction medication. They are easy to learn and can be administered by the patient or their partner.
Penile injections are an effective, natural and painless treatment for ED. They work by relaxing blood vessels in the side of your penis, resulting in an increase in blood flow.
Your doctor will teach you how to inject yourself using a syringe. You can purchase one from a drug store.
In order to use your syringe correctly, it’s important to sterilize it. You can use an alcohol swab to wipe the rubber top of your syringe.
When you are ready to give yourself your injection, hold the syringe at a 90-degree angle with the needle pointing toward the brown hub of the syringe. Then push the plunger in and out several times to withdraw 1.0 cc of medicine.
The erection created by the medication should last from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the dosage. If you experience an erection that lasts longer than four hours, you should call your doctor or go to the emergency room for a medication adjustment.
Vacuum constriction device
Vacuum constriction devices, also known as penis pumps, are a noninvasive treatment for men with erectile dysfunction. They use a hand-powered or battery-powered pump to create a vacuum that draws blood into the penis, creating an erection.
These devices come with a rubber tension ring that slips around the base of your penis to limit blood flow and maintain your erection. These erections usually last long enough for intercourse.
However, the device should not be used for more than 30 minutes. Leaving the band on for longer could seriously bruise or damage your penis.
Using this device along with PDE-5 inhibitors (such as Cialis or Viagra) can help you get and keep an erection. This can improve your quality of life and increase your sexual satisfaction.
Vacuum erection devices may also be used in penile rehabilitation after radical prostatectomy surgery or long-term sexual inactivity. Getting good blood flow into the penis can prevent and minimize any loss of penis length after prostate cancer surgery.
Elastic ring
Erectile dysfunction is a condition in which it is difficult to achieve or sustain an erection. It is a common problem among men, and it can be caused by a variety of factors.
There are many treatment options for ED, including ring devices and penile implants. A doctor can recommend the best approach for your ED situation.
An elastic ring, also known as a penis ring or C-ring, is designed to restrict blood flow out of the penis and maintain an erection. They can be made from various materials, including silicone, rubber, and neoprene.
They are available over the counter in several sizes and designs. Care must be taken to select a size that is not too tight, as this can cause damage to the penile tissues.
These rings can be effective for some people, but they should not be used by everyone. They can be dangerous for people with clotting disorders or those taking anticoagulants. They should also not be left on for long periods of time. They can also trigger priapism, a prolonged erection that may be harmful to the skin and nerves.
Erectile Dysfunction Generic Medication
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that affects many men at some point in their lives. It is defined as the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse.
There are several medications available for the treatment of ED. These medications work by increasing blood flow to the penis, allowing for an erection to occur. The most commonly prescribed medications for ED are:
- Sildenafil (Viagra): This medication is taken orally and is effective in about 70% of men with ED. It is typically taken 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity and lasts up to 4 hours.
- Tadalafil (Cialis): This medication is also taken orally and is effective for up to 36 hours. It can be taken with or without food and is often preferred by men who want more spontaneity in their sexual activity.
- Vardenafil (Levitra): This medication is taken orally and is effective for up to 5 hours. It is similar to sildenafil in terms of its effectiveness and timing of use.
- Avanafil (Stendra): This medication is oral and effective for up to 6 hours. It is the newest medication for ED and has been shown to work faster than the other medications, with onset of action in as little as 15 minutes.
It is important to note that these medications should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider, as they can have potential side effects and interactions with other medications. They should also not be taken by men who are taking nitrates for chest pain, as this can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How effective are ED medications?
ED medications are effective in the majority of men with erectile dysfunction. Studies have shown that up to 70% of men experience improved erections with the use of these medications. However, it’s important to note that these medications are not a cure for ED and may not work for everyone. Additionally, they require sexual stimulation in order to work, so they will not produce an erection on their own.
- What are the side effects of ED medications?
The most common side effects of ED medications are headache, flushing, and indigestion. Less common side effects include vision changes, dizziness, and nasal congestion. In rare cases, these medications can cause a prolonged or painful erection, which requires immediate medical attention. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about any potential side effects and to seek medical attention if you experience any severe or concerning symptoms.
- Can ED medications be used with other medications?
ED medications can interact with other medications, so it’s important to tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and supplements. In particular, these medications should not be taken with nitrates (used to treat chest pain) or with alpha-blockers (used to treat high blood pressure and prostate problems) without the guidance of a healthcare provider. Additionally, grapefruit juice can increase the levels of some ED medications in the bloodstream, so it’s best to avoid grapefruit juice when taking these medications.