Oral Medications for Erectile Dysfunction

You’ll get the best results by using a treatment option that’s right for your needs.

• Sildenafil is a common erectile dysfunction medication.
• Tadalafil offers longer-lasting erection assistance.
• Vardenafil works quickly for some men.
• Sildenafil and tadalafil are available as generics.
• Erections depend on proper blood flow to the penis.
• Tablets should be taken under medical supervision.
• Alcohol can impair the effectiveness of ED tablets.
• Some tablets can cause side effects like headaches.
• Mixing ED tablets with nitrates can be dangerous.
• Dietary restrictions may affect medication absorption.
• Natural supplements claim to boost erectile function.
• Consistent use can improve erectile confidence over time.

Curious about your options for improving your sex life?

Get advice from a healthcare provider at Hims today.

A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study Examining the Hormonal and Vitality Effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Aging, Overweight Males.

Mechanism of action

FDA-approved medications are your best bet for treating ED. Evidence-based PDE5 inhibitors like sildenafil and tadalafil can help with sexual health issues. They’re also available as chewable ED medications, which contain the same ingredients as Viagra and Cialis in personalized dosages. While they’re not approved for ED or PE, doctors sometimes prescribe SSRIs off-label for sexual dysfunction. Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all pill for sex. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

Can I Use Insurance?

Avanafil, sold under the brand name Stendra, is a newer ED medication with several benefits over other prescription pills: Avanafil starts to work in as little as 15 minutes so that you can take it closer to sex than other ED medications. Avanafil starts to work in as little as 15 minutes so that you can take it closer to sex than other ED medications. Like vardenafil, you can take avanafil with meals without slowing the onset. Stendra is less likely to cause side effects than other ED medications. Want to learn more about this ED medication?

How Do Erection Pills Improve Erections?

ED isn’t the only sexual health issue that can mess with your sex life. Research in the Indian Journal of Urology concluded that up to 39 percent of men may experience premature ejaculation at some point in their lives. Looking to tackle PE and boost your sexual confidence and stamina? You’ve got some solid options, including some of the prescription antidepressants and topical products outlined below. Sertraline (generic Zoloft®) bayer vardenafil is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that healthcare professionals typically prescribe to treat major depressive disorder.

What causes ED?

They may also prescribe it off-label to help with increasing ejaculation latency, which is a clinical term for the time it takes before you reach orgasm and ejaculate. You can take it daily or just when you need it for PE. Thanks to its long-lasting effects, you can easily time your dose before getting intimate for the best results. There’s also a link between the other SSRIs and better sexual stamina, including: Research shows that all of these SSRIs may improve ejaculation time, with only mild side effects. Sprays, creams, and wipes might not be sex pills, but they can help treat premature ejaculation. Tribulus terrestris versus placebo in the treatment of erectile dysfunction: A prospective, randomized, double blind study.

• Sildenafil is derived from research initially targeting angina pectoris.
• Tadalafil's chemical structure differs, contributing to its longer duration.
• Vardenafil is similar to sildenafil but may have better tolerability for some.
• Avanafil was approved by the FDA in 2012, making it a newer option.
• Over-the-counter supplements are not regulated for safety or efficacy.
• Drinking plenty of water can help mitigate headache side effects.
• Avoid taking erection tablets with other ED treatments without medical advice.
• Men with penile deformities like Peyronie's disease should use caution.
• Cost-saving options include pill splitting if approved by a doctor.
• Realistic expectations about results can improve patient satisfaction.

Erectogenic and Neurotrophic Effects of Icariin, a Purified Extract of Horny Goat Weed (Epimedium spp.) In Vitro and In Vivo.

Before Using

You can learn more about herbs, vitamins, and other men’s sexual health supplements in our guide to natural home remedies for ED. The aforementioned PDE5 inhibitors boost blood flow to your penis by blocking the PDE5 enzyme. Since erections are all about healthy blood flow, these drugs make it easier for you to get and stay hard when you’re in the mood for sex. As a reminder, FDA-approved PDE5 inhibitors include: Avanafil (a newer medication sold as Stendra®) Avanafil (a newer medication sold as Stendra®) Unlike gas station sex pills that overpromise and underdeliver, genuine ED treatments actually work. For instance, a study revealed that 98.4 percent of men with erectile dysfunction who took sildenafil reported better erections.

Effectiveness and safety

ED and PE medications work well on their own, but they’re more effective when combined with a healthy lifestyle. Simple habits like staying active can support healthy blood vessels and improve blood flow to your penis, helping you get and stay hard. To get the best results from ED pills, try incorporating the following habits into your routine: Exercise multiple times a week to reduce your risk of developing diabetes, which is a major risk factor for ED Exercise multiple times a week to reduce your risk of developing diabetes, which is a major risk factor for ED Eat a balanced diet that’s high in complex carbs, lean proteins, and fibrous vegetables Eat a balanced diet that’s high in complex carbs, lean proteins, and fibrous vegetables Limit foods that can impact heart health and blood pressure, like those high in saturated fat Limit foods that can impact heart health and blood pressure, like those high in saturated fat Quit smoking, which can damage your heart, lungs, and blood vessels, affecting your sexual performance Quit smoking, which can damage your heart, lungs, and blood vessels, affecting your sexual performance Limit your alcohol intake, which can cause “whiskey dick,” a non-clinical term for the negative effects of alcohol on healthy erections Limit your alcohol intake, which can cause “whiskey dick,” a non-clinical term for the negative effects of alcohol on healthy erections You can learn more about maintaining a better lifestyle for your sexual health in our full guide to maintaining an erection naturally. Around 30 to 50 million men in the United States deal with some level of erectile dysfunction. Fortunately, there are many FDA-approved prescription medications that treat ED and other sexual health issues like premature ejaculation.

Further reading

Let’s recap what you should know about sex pills for men: “Sex pills” and penis enlargement pills are readily available, but they’re not all effective. Over-the-counter pills and supplements for sex aren’t backed by the same research as prescription medications. “Sex pills” and penis enlargement pills are readily available, but they’re not all effective. Some OTC options could actually be unsafe. FDA investigations have found that many sex tablet 100mg sex pills for men contain hidden ingredients, including some that can result in dangerous drug interactions and other health problems. Which of available selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) is more effective in treatment of premature ejaculation?

• PDE5 inhibitors are not suitable for women and should not be used by them.
• Sildenafil generic versions have made treatment more accessible financially.
• Tadalafil's effect on BPH can improve urinary symptoms in addition to ED.
• Vardenafil's orally disintegrating form does not require water for ingestion.
• Avanafil's rapid onset makes it appealing for spontaneous sexual activity.
• Herbal products may interact with prescription medications unpredictably.
• Regular cardiovascular exercise can enhance the benefits of ED medication.
• Diabetic men may require higher doses or combination therapies for ED.
• Transparency with partners about ED treatment can reduce performance anxiety.
• Disposal of unused medication should follow local guidelines to prevent misuse.

Effect of sildenafil on erectile dysfunction and improvement in the quality of sexual life in China: A multi-center study. Hims & Hers has strict sourcing guidelines to ensure our content is accurate and current.

Can Women Use Viagra?

Good news: In this case, you can try FDA-approved medications, including the following: These medications, known as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors), enhance the effects of nitric oxide to increase blood flow to your penis after sexual arousal. Let’s look at each of these medications in more detail. Sildenafil (Viagra) is a fast-acting ED medication that was the first prescription drug for ED to receive FDA approval in 1998. You take it as needed, 30 to 60 minutes before sex, and its effects last about four hours per dose. Sildenafil is a great option when you need a one-night fix for ED.

Natural and over-the-counter alternatives for ED

Like all ED medications, sildenafil can cause side effects like: Our guide to sildenafil side effects goes into more detail and covers potential drug interactions to be aware of if you’re considering taking it as an ED or PE treatment. Tadalafil (Cialis) is a longer-lasting ED pill (up to 36 hours per dose). That quality has earned it the nickname “the weekend pill” for ED. Tadalafil is an excellent choice if you enjoy spontaneous sex or engage in sexual activity more than once a day. It can be taken as needed before sex or daily.

Does Viagra work to treat ED?

Since it lasts long, you don’t need to worry about timing your dose. Side effects may stick around longer than other medications. Vardenafil (Levitra) is similar to sildenafil, but its effects last slightly longer, providing relief from ED for up to six hours. It might be a better option for you if you usually take your ED medication with or after dinner, since food is less likely to mess with its absorption. Common side effects of vardenafil include headaches, nasal congestion, flushing, and indigestion—similar to other ED pills. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations.

We strive to use primary sources and refrain from using tertiary references.

other ED treatments

Take our Clockstopper Benzocaine Wipes and Clockstopper Climax Delay Condoms, for example. They contain the topical anesthetic benzocaine that can reduce penis sensitivity. Just apply these products 10 to 15 minutes before sexual activity. You’ll last longer without feeling numb or uncomfortable. Looking for a sex pill with natural ingredients?

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

You might be considering dietary supplements like ashwagandha, ginseng, or horny goat weed, which claim to improve sexual function by either amping up your sexual desire or triggering an erection. Some of these products even claim to assist with penis enlargement. Though they promise a lot, they’re not backed by much scientific evidence. Most of the studies supporting these claims involve animals, not humans, or have other problems. Here’s a breakdown of what the research says about natural remedies for ED and PE: Studies show that ashwagandha can increase testosterone levels, but its effects on sex drive and male sexual health may not be much better than a placebo.

Sildenafil: what you need to know

Studies show that ashwagandha can increase testosterone levels, but its effects on sex drive and male sexual health may not be much better than a placebo. Some research shows that taking Asian ginseng may improve sexual function in men with ED, but it’s unclear how safe the herb is for long-term use. This natural ingredient contains icariin, a mild PDE5 inhibitor, which works similarly to prescription ED meds. However, most research on the herb has been conducted on animals. More research on humans is needed to understand its effects on male sexual health. Full Name: Lynn Marie Morski, MD, JD Full Name: Lynn Marie Morski, MD, JD Current Role at Hims & Hers: Medical Advisor Current Role at Hims & Hers: Medical Advisor Education: Juris Doctor - Thomas Jefferson School of Law, 2014 Doctor of Medicine - Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 2005 Juris Doctor - Thomas Jefferson School of Law, 2014 Juris Doctor - Thomas Jefferson School of Law, 2014 Doctor of Medicine - Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 2005 Doctor of Medicine - Saint Louis University School of Medicine, 2005 Training: Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellowship - University of Arizona, 2009 Family Medicine Residency - Mayo Clinic - 2008 Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellowship - University of Arizona, 2009 Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellowship - University of Arizona, 2009 Specialties & Areas of Focus: Mental Health, Primary Care, Psychedelic Medicine Previous Work Experience: Physician & Subinvestigator/Clinician Rater - Kadima Neuropsychiatry Institute, January 2025– Investigator - Elite Clinical Network, June 2024– Physician - Veterans Administration, 2010–2019 Physician & Subinvestigator/Clinician Rater - Kadima Neuropsychiatry Institute, January 2025– Physician & Subinvestigator/Clinician Rater - Kadima Neuropsychiatry Institute, January 2025– Invited Commentary on Psychedelic Therapy: A Primer for Primary Care Clinicians.

• Herbal and OTC supplements may not be FDA-approved.
• PDE5 inhibitors are the main class of ED drugs.
• Some ED tablets are available without a prescription in certain countries.
• Keep medications out of reach of children.
• Psychological counseling can complement medication treatment.
• Physical exercise can improve blood flow and ED outcomes.
• Side effects can include dizziness and vision changes.
• Combining ED tablets with recreational drugs is risky.
• Proper hydration can influence medication absorption.
• Not all ED conditions require medication; lifestyle may help.
• Document any adverse reactions to your healthcare provider.
• Regular check-ups help monitor cardiovascular health.