Oral Medications for Erectile... Health Article

Prescription oral medications are often very successful in treating ED. But men with certain health problems or who are taking certain other medications should not use them. And all medications may cause side effects. Talk with your doctor about whether oral ED medication is right for you, and the risks and benefits of the medication.

Types of Oral ED Medications

There are three types of prescription oral ED medications on the market. Each increase blood flow to the penis. When the penis is stimulated, the result is an erection. The three medications are:

• Sildenafil citrate (Viagra)

• Tadalafil (Cialis)

• Vardenafil HCL (Levitra)

What Oral ED Medications Don’t Do

• Medications don’t cure the underlying cause of ED. Without the medication, you’ll still have trouble getting an erection.

• Medications cannot produce an erection in the absence of sexual stimulation.

• Medications won’t increase sexual desire or solve any other sexual issues beyond getting an erection. They also won’t solve any psychological, emotional, or relationship issues.

Taking Oral ED Medications Safely

• Don’t combine ED medications with other treatments unless your doctor suggests doing so.

• Don’t take ED medications more often or in larger doses than prescribed.

• Tell your doctor your health history and all medications you take, including over-the-counter medications, supplements, and herbs.

• Ask your doctor about the effects of combining alcohol with your medication.

Possible Side Effects of Oral ED Medications

• Headache

• Facial flushing

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Indigestion

• Distortion of your color vision for a short time