Erectile dysfunction occurs to some degree in about 50 percent of men 40-70 years old. But only 10 percent of men report a total inability to have erections. For 70 percent of men with ED, taking an erectile dysfunction drug can produce an erection sufficient for intercourse. The drugs typically improve the supply of blood to the penis and, together with sexual stimulation, they produce an erection that is hard enough to begin and complete intercourse.
What ED pills are available?
The first ED drug commonly offered is sildenafil (Viagra). It has been on the market for the longest time and its side effects and the foods it interacts with are well known. Other ED drugs available in the U.S. are tadalafil (Cialis), avanafil (Stendra) and vardenafil (Levitra). Another option is Staxyn, the fast-dissolving form of Levitra that is placed under the tongue.
How well do these drugs work?
In those who are otherwise healthy, ED drugs produce an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse in at least 70 percent of men. Although the results vary slightly with each person, 70-80 percent of men will respond well to these medications. In fact, the majority of men with ED are pleased to use these medications. And while there are some who may not have the desired effect from any of these drugs, including men with damaged arteries or nerves after prostate surgery, cardiovascular disease, or diabetes, a larger number will find them quite effective.
How quickly do the pills work?
The pills may not work if they are not used correctly. These drugs are not an on-and-off switch for erections. So they won’t work well if there is no sexual stimulation. After taking the drugs, it is important for a man to be with his sexual partner and have foreplay. Likewise, Viagra and Levitra do not work if taken after a meal and must be taken before eating. But Stendra and Cialis do not interact with food and can be taken after a meal. When used properly, it takes about 15-60 minutes for the pills to start working.
Which drug works best?
There is no specific ED drug that is the best. Studies have shown that all ED pills have similar efficacy and safety. So the best drug depends on the man’s body chemistry, lifestyle and needs. That is why men should consider their and their partners’ preferences and the cost of their preferred medications. For instance, they may consider how spontaneous their partners are when it comes to sexual activity.
Nevertheless, studies have shown that about 52 percent of men with ED prefer tadalafil (Cialis), 28 percent prefer sildenafil (Viagra) and about 20 percent prefer vardenafil (Levitra). Tadalafil is more popular because it offers a 36-hour window of opportunity to have an erection while the other pills offer a much shorter period.
What are the alternatives to ED drugs?
For men not satisfied with the pills or who have conditions that make these drugs ineffective, shockwave lithotripsy is a great alternative to explore. During this treatment, waves are delivered to the penis to create or improve vascularity. Even if shockwave lithotripsy does not work, the urologist may request a test to measure the rate of blood flow to the penis. The test can help the doctor determine if there are underlying issues that ought to be addressed.
Even though ED drugs are generally safe, they should not be taken by men with certain conditions. For example, men with heart disease should not take these drugs. ED patients should always tell their doctors about all their health issues and the medications they are taking during their consultations. With this information, doctors can recommend the right pills or treatment for each patient. For more information on treatment of erectile dysfunction, visit the “Advanced Urology Institute” site.