Erectile Dysfunction Treatment: Practical Options That Work

ED can feel embarrassing, but it’s common and treatable. If you’ve noticed difficulty getting or keeping an erection, there are straightforward options—from pills you take before sex to devices and medical procedures. Below I’ll explain what works, what to watch out for, and how to buy meds safely if you need them.

Medicines and how they differ

PDE5 inhibitors are the most used drugs for ED. This group includes sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra). They improve blood flow to the penis and work for many men, but they’re not identical:

• Sildenafil: Usually starts in 30–60 minutes and lasts about 4–6 hours.
• Tadalafil: Can work for up to 36 hours—useful if you want more spontaneity.
• Vardenafil: Similar to sildenafil in timing but may work for men who don’t respond to others.

Two quick safety points: don’t mix these with nitrates (common in chest pain meds like Isordil) — that combo can drop blood pressure dangerously. Also check with your doctor about heart meds and some blood pressure drugs. Our article on sildenafil interactions goes into the drug combos to avoid.

Other treatments and real-world fixes

If pills aren’t an option or don’t work, you still have solid choices. Vacuum erection devices pull blood into the penis and use a ring to hold it there. They’re non-invasive and affordable. Injections (alprostadil) or intra-urethral suppositories can produce reliable erections for many men. For long-term solutions, penile implants are surgical but have high satisfaction rates.

Don’t skip the basics: losing weight, cutting back on alcohol, quitting smoking, and getting regular exercise can improve erections. Low testosterone can be a factor — a simple blood test can tell you if hormone treatment helps. If anxiety or relationship stress plays a role, therapy or couples counseling often boosts results alongside medical treatment.

Buying medication online? Stick to licensed pharmacies that require a prescription. Watch for sites that claim "no Rx needed" — those are risky. Check pharmacy reviews, look for contact details, and compare prices. We review trustworthy online pharmacies and give tips on safe purchases elsewhere on this site.

If you’re unsure where to start, ask your primary care doctor or a urologist. They can rule out underlying causes like high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease and recommend the safest, most effective option for you. Treating ED often improves confidence and relationships—so it’s worth getting help.