The symptoms of Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be managed with the help of prescription as well as non-prescription or over the counter (OTC) medications. OTC medications are composed of natural ingredients, that are known for their therapeutic effects in easing sexual difficulties. These medications can improve the erection function, treat ejaculatory disorders, and boost the libido or sex drive.
Some well-known over the counter ED vitamins or supplements, according to the Healthline website, are given below:
L-arginine
Your body naturally produces L-arginine, which is an amino acid. It is utilized for building proteins. Some studies have shown that L-arginine can be helpful in improving erection function and providing relief from erectile dysfunction. Since it is an amino acid, it gets metabolized by the body into nitric oxide (NO), which is an essential chemical that keeps the blood vessels healthy.
NO increases muscle relaxation in the penile blood vessels by causing vasodilation. This expands the blood vessels and the blood pressure gets reduced. More blood flows inside the penile due to dilation of the blood vessels. Therefore, for a healthy erection function, adequate NO must be there in the body and since L-arginine is a biological precursor of NO, L-arginine supplements can be a great remedy.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
DHEA is a hormone that is produced in the body by the adrenal glands. It has a vital role in sexual function, as it helps in producing hormones such as testosterone and estrogen, which are sex hormones that regulate sexual function. Researchers have concluded that DHEA can be helpful in easing the symptoms of impotence and boosting the sex drive or libido in males.
As men get older, the levels of DHEA decline in the body. To compensate for that, one can make use of DHEA pills or supplements that are available as over the counter medications. These medications alleviate erectile dysfunction symptoms and increase sex drive or libido.
Propionyl-L-carnitine
This is also an amino acid, which is produced in the body naturally. It is helpful in optimizing the blood flow throughout the body, thereby improving the functions of the heart, muscles, and brain. Low levels of propionyl-L-carnitine can contribute to the damage of blood vessels and heart health. Therefore, to maintain adequate levels of propionyl-L-carnitine in the body, one can use over the counter propionyl-L-carnitine pills or supplements. This will increase the blood circulation to the reproductive organs and help maintain a healthy sexual function by treating erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and libido problems in men.
Ginseng
Ginseng supplements can trigger the release of nitric oxide in the body, which supports the healthy functioning of the penile blood vessels. The effects of ginseng increase the blood flow throughout the body and provide relief from the symptoms of erectile dysfunction. Besides, these supplements can also ease fertility issues and ejaculatory disorders.
Horny goat weed
This has been used for centuries for the treatment of low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and fertility problems. It can help treat impotence, by suppressing the phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) action and increasing nitric oxide production.
Yohimbe
Yohimbe is extracted from the bark of an African tree and it contains Yohimbine as its most active ingredient. Its effects are identical to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which are drugs that are used to treat depression. According to the National Institutes of Health, it promotes the release of a neurotransmitter chemical, known as norepinephrine, which is essential for a healthy erection function. Apart from that, it can also improve ejaculatory function and sex drive in males.
Note that, Yohimbe can give rise to side effects like dizziness, anxiety, insomnia, high blood pressure, nausea, etc. And excessive intake of it can lead to serious side effects, which can lead to health damage.
These are all-natural remedies that can help relieve the symptoms of erectile dysfunction. They are available as pills or supplements with different doses. However, they are not approved by the FDA, which raises concerns about their safety and effectiveness.
Also, there is still limited research about their unwanted side effects. Their use potentiates the risk of dangerous side effects. Even if they are organic or all-natural, anything in access can prove to be toxic. They are easily available over the counter. The manufacturers may not disclose all the ingredients that are present in the pills, and since they are not regulated, the probability of these supplements containing some hazardous ingredient is quite high. Lastly, you should be aware of the side effects of these supplements before using them. This will reduce the risk of health damage. Hence, caution must be exercised.