Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Oral medications such as Viagra and Cialis are a common treatment for mild to moderate ED, but they may not work for everyone. In fact, they fail in 15-50% of men who try them. These pills are designed to achieve an erection quickly in response to sexual stimulation. However, they do not provide automatic erections like injection drugs. Patients may also experience side effects, including headaches, facial blushing, upset stomach, and mild and temporary visual effects. It is important to note that each of these medications take time for effect, some must be taken at least 30 minutes to 1 hour prior to anticipated sexual activity, others can be taken in the morning and remain in one’s system for 24 hours.

Injections are another option for men with erectile dysfunction, where an erection is achieved by self-injecting drugs into their penis. However, potential side effects of injection therapy include scarring and long-lasting painful erections. The advantages of injection therapy are that it can easily be self-administered, and an erection can be achieved within 5-20 minutes. However, injections are shown to have a long-term dropout rate of 37% to 76%. Reasons for dropping out of drug therapy include a desire for a permanent treatment alternative, inadequate response, fear of needles, and side effects.

Non-drug treatment options for erectile dysfunction include vacuum erection device and penile implants. The vacuum erection device works by being placed over the penis to draw blood into the shaft, creating an erection. Once the vacuum creates an erection, the retaining band is slid down to the base of the penis, and the pump is removed. Penile pumps have the advantage of on-demand use, being non-invasive, re-usable, and drug-free. However, some disadvantages include the erection not being warm to the touch, a learning curve, and delayed ejaculation.

A penile implant is a device that is placed into a man’s penis and is designed to help him get an erection. It is a long-term treatment option that is covered by many insurance plans and allows an erection as often as desired. Penile implants have the advantages of being easy to use, totally concealed in the body, and providing erections when desired. However, a surgical procedure is required, and the patient will no longer be able to get natural erections. You deserve to have a rewarding sex life, and there is always a solution for your ED.