ED treatments: clear options, how they work, and what to watch for

If erectile dysfunction (ED) is affecting you or your partner, you want straight answers and practical steps. This guide breaks down common treatments, how they work, safety checkpoints, and quick tips to pick what fits your life.

Main treatment options

Oral pills (PDE5 inhibitors) are the most common first step. These include sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil, and avanafil. They improve blood flow to the penis and work only when you're sexually stimulated. Tadalafil lasts longer (up to 36 hours); avanafil can act faster and may suit older men with heart meds. Everyone reacts differently, so dose and timing matter.

Injectable meds and urethral suppositories are for people who don’t get results with pills. Alprostadil can be injected or inserted into the urethra; it causes an erection directly. Vacuum erection devices (pumps) use suction and a ring to hold the erection—no drugs involved. Finally, surgical implants are a permanent option when other treatments fail.

What to consider when choosing

Start with a short health check. ED often links to high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, low testosterone, or depression. If you’re on nitrates for chest pain, do NOT take PDE5 inhibitors—this can dangerously drop blood pressure. Tell your doctor about all meds, including herbal supplements.

Side effects are usually mild: headache, flushing, nasal congestion, or muscle aches. Serious signs—like vision loss, sudden hearing loss, or an erection lasting more than four hours—need immediate medical care. If you have chest pain during sex, stop and call emergency services.

Shopping for meds online? Only use pharmacies that require a prescription and show clear contact details. Avoid sites selling cheap pills without a prescription—those can be fake or unsafe.

Non-drug options matter too. Losing weight, exercising, quitting smoking, and cutting back on alcohol often improve ED. Talk therapy helps when stress, anxiety, or relationship issues contribute.

Hormone testing is worth considering if you have low libido, fatigue, or other signs of low testosterone. If levels are low, testosterone replacement can help—but it’s not a fix for every case and needs doctor supervision.

When should you see a doctor? If ED starts suddenly, follows injury, or comes with other symptoms like shortness of breath or fainting, seek care fast. If ED affects your mood or relationship, get help sooner rather than later.

Practical tips: try one well-reviewed treatment for a few attempts before switching; keep a symptom log to share with your clinician; and prioritize licensed pharmacies when buying meds. If you want specific drug guides or safety checks, EmpowerPharmacy.com has plain-language articles on options like avanafil and tadalafil to help you talk to your doctor.

You don’t have to accept ED as permanent. With the right checkup and a few lifestyle moves or a safe treatment choice, most people improve their sexual health and confidence.