Erectile Dysfunction Treatments

Men with erectile dysfunction (ED) might feel confused while choosing the best remedy for treating their condition. There are various options that can work differently but give the same result. Men can opt for one or more options according to their suitability. Every treatment method might not be appropriate for all, so, men can go for the option that best suits them.  

Here are some treatment options for erectile dysfunction:  

Prescription or non-prescription medications

ED medications are the most effective remedy for erectile dysfunction. Such medications contain an active ingredient that treats the erection function by increasing the flow of blood to the penile. FDA has given its approval to ED medications that are given below:

• Viagra – These drugs contain Sildenafil Citrate as their active ingredient. It is the first ED drug that has acquired approval from the FDA to be used for the treatment of impotence issues in men. The effectiveness of medicine remains in the bloodstream for up to 3 to 4 hours from the time of its consumption. The pill has to be taken when required.
• Cialis – These drugs are brand-name versions of Tadalafil, which is the component that helps improve the erection function. They are known for their prolonged effectiveness, which can remain up to 36 hours. Low doses of Cialis can be taken once daily, while high doses are not suitable for daily use.
• Levitra – The key ingredient of these branded ED pills is Vardenafil, which remains active in the bloodstream for around 4 to 6 hours after consumption. The effects of the medicine become active within 25 to 60 minutes.
• Stendra – Composed of the key ingredient Avanafil, the effects of Stendra remain for up to 6 hours in the bloodstream. A single dose of this medicine has to be taken only once a day when required.
• You should never take more than a single dose. The dose will be decided by your healthcare provider, based on the severity, medical history, chronic health conditions, and medications that you are currently using.  
• Apart from these, there are also some generic versions available. They are not approved by the FDA though. Prescription medications are safer in comparison to non-prescription medications, as the latter can contain some undisclosed ingredients that can be harmful to health. Non-prescription medications are not approved by the FDA and are generally not considered safe.

Vacuum devices or penile pumps

• This is a cylindrical hollow tube that is made up of plastic that fits around the penile. To use this device, you have to apply some lubricant on your penile, insert it inside the tube, and start pumping out the air inside to create a vacuum. Once the vacuum is created, the blood vessels in the penile might pull or draw more blood toward the penile shaft, and in this way, the blood might get trapped inside the penile blood vessels under high pressure, which helps trigger a stronger erection. These devices can come with two features, such as manually operable or electronically operable.  

Constriction rings or ED rings

• These are the rings or elastic bands that have to be worn on the penile to trigger stronger erections. These are made up of stretchable material that helps in trapping the blood inside the penile blood vessels, and as a result, the erection is sustained. You can adjust the ring by increasing the pressure. ED rings can be used in combination with other treatments such as ED pills or penile pumps.

Penile implants

• When other treatment methods fail, your healthcare provider may recommend this treatment technique as a last resort. This is a surgical method, wherein invasions will be made to the penile to surgically insert malleable implants inside the sections of the penile. These implants can come in two types – inflatable and semirigid. They are inflatable. One can inflate them whenever they plan to engage in sexual interaction. However, it is not the safest option.

Creams 

• Topical creams for ED have to be applied directly on the penile surface. The creams penetrate deep inside the penile skin, all the way down to the blood vessels. It can be used along with some other treatment options. These creams are available only on prescription and they contain alprostadil as the main ingredient.
• According to some studies, alprostadil topical cream can be a safer alternative to oral ED medications as ED medications are PDE5 inhibitors that are not safe for use in men already drugs such as nitrates, alpha-blockers, and blood pressure medicines to manage their chronic health conditions. However, there is still a lack of evidence regarding the efficacy of these creams in treating impotence issues.

Seek professional guidance

The availability of various options of ED treatment may baffle you and you might find it difficult to pick a suitable treatment option. It is wise to consult a healthcare professional who can help you find a safe and effective remedy for your impotence issues. You must feel free to discuss all your concerns with the professional, which will make it easier to choose an appropriate treatment for your condition.