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Erectile Dysfunction

The Best Medicine for Erectile Dysfunction: Everything You Need to Know

April 20, 2023

A large percentage of men suffer from erectile dysfunction in the United States. While it is common, you might have questions regarding treatment and medication for ED. We've put together a guide outlining the best medicine for erectile dysfunction to help you find the best treatment for you.

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Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a problem that affects over 30 million men in the United States and is a condition that can lead to stress, anxiety and depression. ED can be caused by a variety of factors, both physical and psychological. Physical causes can include health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and obesity, while psychological causes can include stress, anxiety, depression and trauma.

To learn more about erectile dysfunction, including the best medicine for erectile dysfunction, continue reading our guide below.

How Erectile Dysfunction Is Treated

Fortunately, there are many treatment options for men suffering from ED. These treatments range from lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking, to prescription medications. Patients must discuss an ideal treatment plan with their doctor to get the best results. With the combination of lifestyle adjustments and the best medicine for erectile dysfunction, men can enjoy a healthy and satisfying sex life.

Choosing the Best Medicine for Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction medication works by relaxing smooth muscles and increasing blood flow in the penis, allowing the individual to get an erection in response to sexual stimulation. All ED drugs work similarly but have slightly different chemical makeup, affecting how the medication works and how quickly it takes effect.

The following are the most common prescription medications for erectile dysfunction:

Generic Name Examples of Brand Names
Sildenafil Viagra®
Vardenafil Staxyn®, Levitra®
Avanafil Stendra®
Tadalafil Cialis®

Potential side effects of erectile dysfunction medication include the following:

  • Headaches
  • Digestive system problems
  • Body pains
  • Dizziness
  • Vision changes
  • Flushes
  • Congestion

The best medicine for erectile dysfunction differs from person to person, so it is crucial to talk to a medical professional about which ED drug you should take. For example, those taking nitrates and alpha-blockers to treat a heart condition are not recommended to take any of the medicines mentioned above to treat ED. The combination of chemicals can lead to an abrupt drop in blood pressure which might lead to sudden dizziness and loss of consciousness.

Natural Remedies for Erectile Dysfunction

In addition to prescription medications, natural remedies are available for ED. These include herbs such as ginseng, ginkgo biloba and yohimbe. These herbs have been used for centuries to treat erectile dysfunction and are believed to increase blood flow to the penis. They may also help reduce stress and anxiety, which can be a contributing factor to ED. However, it is essential to remember that natural remedies may not be as effective as prescription medications and should be used cautiously.

How Well Do Erectile Dysfunction Medications Work?

When appropriately used, ED drugs help improve erectile function. A clinical study has revealed that around 70 percent of men had improved erections after taking sildenafil, tadalafil or vardenafil.

How quickly they work and how long the effects last can vary widely depending on the brand. For instance, some pills may take as little as 30 minutes to start working, while others may take up to an hour. Additionally, some brands may last up to eight hours, while others may only last four to five hours.

How to Take Erectile Dysfunction Medication for Best Results

Like other prescription medications, ED drugs work best when taken in the right conditions. The biggest misconception about these medicines is they are an on-off switch for erections. However, this is not the case.

Men should take the recommended dosage of ED drugs ahead of time, around 30 to 60 minutes, to prevent an awkward situation where the medicine isn't fully active when needed the most. However, they should not be taken more than three or four hours before having sex because the effects have already worn off during this time.

In addition, most doctors also recommend that you avoid eating fatty meals when you plan to take ED medication since fat can interfere with the absorption of some active ingredients in the drugs. Any erectile dysfunction drug must be taken on an empty stomach to maximize its effects.

How Much Do Erectile Dysfunction Medications Cost?

The cost of erectile dysfunction medications will depend on the brand and type of generics you choose. For example, generic sildenafil can cost as little as $4 per pill, while the brand-name version, Viagra, can cost up to $60 per pill. It's essential to talk to your doctor about which medication is best for you and your budget.

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Get Potential Discounts on the Best Medicine for Erectile Dysfunction

There are many medications available to treat ED. Prescription medications are the most popular and effective treatments for erectile dysfunction. Natural remedies such as herbs may also help manage the condition but should be used cautiously since their effectiveness and safety are not always guaranteed.

Ultimately, it’s crucial to speak with your doctor to determine the best medication for you. With the proper treatment, you can manage ED successfully.

If you are looking to reduce the out-of-pocket costs of erectile dysfunction medications, then give Inside Rx a try. Inside Rx discount cards allow you to potentially save up to 80 percent off the price of your brand or generic ED prescriptions. Inside Rx has partnered with nearly 60,000 pharmacies in the United States and Puerto Rico to make healthy savings accessible to more people. Download a free Inside Rx discount card now to start saving!

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