Using oral medications for erectile dysfunction treatment is one of the most sought out ways of treatment.
These medications will work to provide enough and lasting firmness to those who have a hard time achieving or retaining their erection.
The article is a part of our comprehensive series on Erectile Dysfunction.
The working mechanism of erectile dysfunction medications
Although medications for erectile dysfunction greatly vary in their chemical structure, the working mechanism is almost similar.
Erectile dysfunction medications reverse the effect of ED by inhibiting the impact of a natural chemical in the body called PDE5. This helps to enhance the blood flow to the penis.
In certain other studies, researchers have also noted the importance of nitric acid (a chemical compound produced by the body) in enhancing the blood flow to the penile region for a better erection.
Before using a particular drug for the treatment, your medical professional will evaluate several factors such as cardiac health, blood pressure, allergic reaction to any medication, etc.
The medicines mainly differ by the:
- Working mechanism
- The duration they take to give an erection
- The period for which the effects last
Commonly used drugs for erectile dysfunction
Let us take a look at some of the most common medications that are used to treat ED.
Sildenafil (IQNYDE, Viagra): This is a popularly known treatment for erectile dysfunction. Viagra gives the best results if taken on an empty stomach and an hour before sexual intercourse.
The effect of this medication usually lasts for one to five hours after consumption.
Avanafil (Stendra): The effect of this medication can last up to six hours and should be consumed at least 30 minutes before coitus.
Dapoxetine (Priligy): This drug is used for the treatment of patients with both premature ejaculation (PE) and erectile dysfunction (ED). It is advisable to consume the medicine an hour before having sex.
Tadalafil (Cialis): Compared to other drugs used for the treatment, the effect of tadalafil can last up to 15 hours. This medication should be consumed one to two hours before intercourse, and the dosage varies depending on the extent of dysfunction.
Vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn): For best results, this drug has to be taken an hour before sex with or without food, depending on your choice. If you are someone suffering from gall bladder stones, it is advisable to consume Vardenafil and a high-fat meal to be absorbed slowly in the stomach.
Recently a new variant of this drug was launched, which has to be placed under the tongue for absorption and action.
When should you NOT consume oral medications for ED?
You should not consume oral medications for erectile dysfunction if you are struggling with the following issues.
1. An allergy issue to any of the compounds present in the medicine.
2. Liver-related issues.
3. If you are on dialysis or have any kidney-related problems.
4. If you are on nitrate drugs such as nitroglycerine, isosorbide dinitrate, isosorbide mononitrate, etc.
5. Hypertension or hypotension
Side effects of erectile dysfunction medicines
The side reactions of erectile dysfunction medicines vary from person to person. These could range from flushing, headache, mild to moderate pain, and heat sensation. Having a painkiller such as panadol can alleviate the side effects.
Some of the less common side effects include acid reflux dyspepsia, abdominal discomfort, etc.
The patient also rarely develops a continuous erection that lasts for a few hours. However, if the erection doesn’t subside even after 6 hours, you should seek urgent medical help.
NEVER buy and consume these drugs without the advise of a medical professional.
Contact us at andSons Singapore and get evaluated for a suitable ED treatment plan.
References
Chintan K. Patel1 and Nelson Bennetta(18 Mar 16)Advances in the treatment of erectile dysfunction: what’s new and upcoming?, Available at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4979545/ [Accessed 19 Sep 2021]
William D Steers(4 Sep 2002)Pharmacologic Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction, Available at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1476024/ [Accessed 19 Sep 2021]
