Erectile dysfunction treatment: clear, practical options

About half of men between 40 and 70 report some trouble with erections at times. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone — and there are real, proven ways to get results. This page lays out straightforward options you can discuss with your doctor, and what to watch for when choosing treatment.

Oral meds: what to know

The most common first step is a pill called a PDE5 inhibitor. Names you’ll hear are sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra). They help blood flow to the penis and work for many men. Sildenafil and vardenafil act faster but usually last a few hours; tadalafil can work for up to 36 hours and also has a daily low‑dose option.

Take them as directed: some work best on an empty stomach, others are less affected by food. Don’t mix PDE5 inhibitors with nitrates (heart meds) — that can dangerously lower blood pressure. Typical side effects are headache, flushing, nasal congestion, and upset stomach. If a pill doesn’t help, tell your doctor — dose adjustments or a different treatment might do the trick.

Other medical options

If pills aren’t right or don’t work, other treatments exist. Injection therapy (alprostadil) puts medication directly into the penis and often gives a reliable erection. There’s also an intraurethral suppository form of alprostadil. Both need training and carry risks like pain or prolonged erections.

Vacuum erection devices create a vacuum around the penis to draw in blood, then a ring keeps the erection. They’re drug‑free and useful for many men, though some find them awkward. For severe, persistent ED, surgical penile implants (inflatable or malleable) are highly effective and have high satisfaction rates but require surgery and recovery time.

Low testosterone can cause low libido and weak erections. Testing a simple morning blood sample can tell you if testosterone replacement is appropriate. That therapy has benefits but also risks, so it needs close medical follow‑up.

Psychological factors like stress, anxiety, or relationship issues often play a big role. A short course of counseling or sex therapy can make a big difference, especially when combined with medical treatment.

Diagnosis is straightforward: expect a medical history, physical exam, and a few blood tests (blood sugar, lipids, hormones). Depending on the situation, your doctor may suggest vascular testing or a urology referral.

Buying meds online is tempting, but be careful. Only use licensed pharmacies, check that the site requires a prescription, and talk to your doctor before buying. Fake or poorly made drugs can be ineffective or risky.

If erections are suddenly worse, painful, or last more than four hours, seek urgent medical help. Also see a doctor if ED starts after a new medication, after heart problems, or if it affects your mood and relationships. With the right approach, most men can find a solution that works for them.