Considering erectile dysfunction medication? Get some helpful insights here
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a widely recognised male sexual dysfunction. Men who are dealing with ED are often curious about what erectile dysfunction medication options are available.
That’s why the medical review team at Chemist2U has written this article,with some insightful information about how erectile dysfunction medication works. Read on to better understand this condition and how to make your medication easy with the help of Chemist2U.
In this article
How does erectile dysfunction medication work?
Erectile dysfunction management often includes lifestyle changes, counselling, and erectile dysfunction medication.
One common medical treatment involves oral medications known as phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Many people may know these medications as sildenafil (e.g. Viagra), tadalafil (e.g. Cialis), vardenafil (e.g. Levitra), or avanafil (e.g. Stendra).[1]
These PDE5 inhibitors work by increasing blood flow to the penis. They do this by stopping the breakdown of a substance in your body called cGMP. This leads to the widening of blood vessels, allowing more blood to flow to the penis, which helps in getting an erection.[2]
Another erectile dysfunction medication option is self-injectable medications like alprostadil (e.g. Caverject). This works by directly injecting the medication into the area, which then widens the blood vessels, helping the penis to become erect.
How do you take erectile dysfunction medication?
Erectile dysfunction medication such as PDE5 inhibitors are typically taken one to two hours before sexual activity for optimal effectiveness.[3] (Tadalafil can also be taken daily at a low dose.) The dose generally depends on the individual’s condition and is decided by a doctor. Patients are encouraged to follow the prescribed regimen closely. Avoiding large meals and alcohol close to the time of taking the medication is often suggested.
If oral phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors do not yield the desired results, penile injections might be an alternative. Speak to a doctor to learn if these are suitable for you. These injections generally enable sexual activity to commence within ten to fifteen minutes.[4] The lowest effective dose for these injections is often prescribed by doctors to first-time users to minimise the risk of complications.
Who can take erectile dysfunction medication?
Erectile dysfunction medication is considered for men who are facing persistent challenges with erectile difficulties. It’s important to understand, however, that not everyone is a suitable candidate for this type of medication.
The decision to use such medication should be made in consultation with a doctor. This is because a doctor’s guidance is essential to ensuring the safety and appropriateness of the medication. Each individual’s health condition and the other medications they may be taking play a crucial role in determining whether erectile dysfunction medication is a suitable option.
Side effects of erectile dysfunction medication
Like all medications, erectile dysfunction medication can have side effects. Understanding these side effects is important for making informed health decisions.
PDE5 inhibitors, for example, may cause side effects like headaches, facial flushing, nasal congestion, and indigestion. Typically, these effects are mild and tend to be temporary. However, there are instances of more serious side effects, such as changes in vision, an unusually prolonged erection (known as priapism), or sudden hearing loss.[5]
Injectable medications for erectile dysfunction also have their own set of possible side effects. These can range from blood pressure changes (either hypotension or hypertension) to dizziness and headaches. While less common, prolonged erections or priapism may also occur with injectable treatments. Other side effects might include rash, swelling of the penis, penile infections, and injuries to the penis.[6]
Erectile dysfunction medication and other medications
When considering the use of male enhancement or erectile drugs, it’s important to understand their potential interactions with other medications.
Certain ED treatment options can interact with a range of conditions, including cardiovascular disease, renal (kidney) dysfunction, pulmonary (lung) disease, and priapism (prolonged erection). As a result, medications used to treat these conditions may also interact with ED medication options.[7]
Given the complexity of these interactions, it is crucial to consult with your doctor before starting or changing any medication regimen. Your doctor can provide personalised advice, considering your specific health needs and the medications you’re currently taking. This is especially important as the interaction of erectile dysfunction medication with other drugs can lead to increased risks.
Medicines you should not use with erectile dysfunction medication
It’s important to be aware of potential interactions with other medications you may be taking when considering using erectile dysfunction medication.
One key interaction to be aware of is with nitrates. If you’re taking nitrates, PDE5Is are contraindicated due to the risk of severe hypotension.[8]
Another important consideration is the use of alpha-blockers. If you’re on alpha-blocker therapy, doctors recommend the use of PDE5Is only after the treatment is stabilised. Additionally, interactions with certain metabolic agents, such as bosentan, may require adjustments in dosing when used in combination with PDE5Is.[9]
Potent inhibitors of the cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme, including medications like erythromycin, clarithromycin, ketoconazole, itraconazole, and HIV protease inhibitors, can also lead to increased plasma concentrations of PDE5Is. This can be particularly concerning for individuals with cardiac disease who require nitrates or alpha-blockers as the potential for life-threatening hypotension increases.[10]
How to order erectile dysfunction medication through Chemist2U
Understanding the challenges that come with managing erectile dysfunction, Chemist2U strives to make the process of obtaining home delivery of medications as convenient as possible. Our online pharmacy delivery service is designed for convenience by eliminating the need for frequent pharmacy visits.
To begin, simply explore our user-friendly website or download our mobile app. You will have the ability to securely upload your eScript. This ensures a safe and direct transfer of your prescription details to a Chemist2U partner pharmacist in your local area, who will then prepare your medications with care and confidentiality.
In addition to prescription medications, you can also order home delivery for a variety of over-the-counter medications and general pharmacy products. This allows you to conveniently purchase any additional items you may need alongside your erectile dysfunction medication.
If any general questions about your medication arise, our Ask a Pharmacist chat service provides answers from a qualified pharmacist.
Experience the convenience of accessing home delivery from a pharmacy online. Order home delivery of your prescription medications at Chemist2U today!
References
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548192/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK548192/
[3] https://australianprescriber.tg.org.au/articles/erectile-dysfunction-causes-assessment-and-management-options.html
[4] https://australianprescriber.tg.org.au/articles/erectile-dysfunction-causes-assessment-and-management-options.html
[5] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/erectile-dysfunction-medicines
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542217/
[7] https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/sildenafil.html
[8] https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/circulationaha.110.944603
[9] https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/circulationaha.110.944603#d1e1508
[10] https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/circulationaha.110.944603#d1e1508