Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects men of all ages and should be taken seriously. It is a leading cause of relationship problems and may be a harbinger of heart disease.
A physical exam is the first step in diagnosing ED. Healthcare providers may also ask questions about sex desire, orgasm, and satisfaction with sex.
Over-the-counter (OTC) Medication
There are several oral drugs approved for ED by the FDA, including sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra). Each one has a slightly different chemical makeup that affects how quickly it takes effect, how long it lasts, and whether or not you are sensitive to its side effects. Your doctor or other health care professional can recommend the best one for you based on your medical history, whether or not you have any health conditions, and what other medicines you take.
The FDA has also approved injection therapy that delivers alprostadil, a prescription Kamagra Oral Jelly that can be ordered in the office or at home, and that helps many men with ED get and keep an erection. Some older men may benefit from a surgical procedure that bypasses damage to the artery in the penis by rerouting blood through other arteries. This medicine is available at genericmedsaustralia.com.
Men looking for a more natural treatment for their ED can try supplements such as L-arginine, which may help increase nitric oxide, a compound that opens up blood vessels to improve blood flow. Other supplements that may help include pycnogenol, a plant extract found in tree bark, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a hormonal steroid produced by your adrenal glands. However, research on most of these supplements is minimal and their effects are not well documented. Finally, some men may try acupuncture, a practice that involves inserting very thin needles into certain points on the body.
Over-the-counter (OTC) Supplements
Many men turn to OTC supplements in an attempt to treat their ED, but these products are often useless or even dangerous. In some cases, they contain ingredients that have not been approved by the FDA for use in the United States. Others may be contaminated with other ingredients or simply don’t work at all.
One of the most popular OTC treatments for ED is L-arginine, an amino acid that has been shown to promote blood flow to the penis and improve erections in some people. It works by enhancing the production of nitric oxide in the body, which opens up blood vessels and allows for improved circulation. In addition, a small 2022 study found that taking L-arginine for three months helped some people with vasculogenic ED—a type of ED caused by inadequate blood flow to the penis.
Other OTC supplements, such as horny goat weed and Yohimbe, are also used to enhance sexual function. Yohimbe is a plant that contains an active ingredient known as yohimbine, which has been shown to increase blood flow to the penis and boost energy. Horny goat weed, on the other hand, contains an active ingredient called icariin, which has been shown to have positive effects in animal studies involving nerve injury.
Exercise, a healthy diet, and stress reduction techniques can also help reduce the symptoms of ED. These lifestyle changes can help address the underlying causes of the condition, including low testosterone levels and other health problems, and should be an integral part of any ED management plan.
Over-the-counter (OTC) Testosterone Therapy
Testosterone is a male sex hormone that helps regulate libido, muscle mass and strength, fat distribution, bone density, and production of red blood cells and sperm. In men over 30, natural testosterone levels begin to decline, resulting in the development of symptoms such as erectile dysfunction (ED).
Many supplements claim to increase a man’s natural testosterone, but there is little evidence they do. Most contain ingredients like zinc, vitamin B6, fenugreek extract, and other vitamins and minerals that are not associated with increased testosterone. Instead, lifestyle changes and proper nutrition can have a more significant impact on testosterone.
The FDA has approved a few prescription medications that can help treat ED, such as Viagra (sildenafil) and Cialis (tadalafil). These are only prescribed to men with a medical condition or confirmed low testosterone levels.
Fortunately, there are options to address ED without prescription medications. For instance, GAINSWave is a non-invasive treatment that can boost testosterone and improve libido, sexual function, and body composition. Find a provider near you and start your journey to renewed vitality today.
Penile Implants
Since Viagra (sildenafil) became a household name more than a decade ago, many men with erectile dysfunction think of it as a treatable condition. However, a less-known option — penile implants — may offer a lasting and satisfying cure for the condition.
Brian tried oral medications to treat his ED, but they didn’t help. He then tried alprostadil injections, which increase blood flow to the penis and can cause an erection. But the side effects were too unpleasant for him to keep taking them.
When he heard about penile implants, he made an appointment to talk with a urologist at UH Urology Institute. During his visit, the doctor checked his general health and took his vitals. The doctor also asked Brian about his current medications. Some drugs, including aspirin and certain herbal supplements, can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.
For the implant procedure, Brian was given anesthesia for safety. He went home the same day, although some people need to stay overnight in the hospital. After the procedure, he had to use ice packs and take prescription antibiotics to prevent infection. But after a few weeks of recovery, he was able to resume sexual activity. Penile implants can last up to 20 years. Read More…
