Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that affects many men and oral meds are the first line of treatment. These work well and have minimal side effects. Here’s everything you need to know about the top pills for ED, including how they work, risks and how to buy them online safely.
Top Oral Medications for Erectile Dysfunction
The four primary oral medications for ED include:
Avanafil (Stendra)
Sildenafil (Viagra)
Tadalafil (Cialis)
Vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn)
These medications belong to a class of drugs called PDE5 inhibitors, which improve blood flow to the penis by enhancing the effects of nitric oxide, a natural chemical that relaxes penile muscles.
How ED Medications Work
- Sildenafil (Viagra): Best taken on an empty stomach about an hour before sexual activity. Effects last 4–5 hours, longer in mild cases.
- Tadalafil (Cialis): Known as the “weekend pill” for its long-lasting effects, up to 36 hours. Can be taken daily in smaller doses.
- Vardenafil (Levitra): Works best on an empty stomach. Lasts 4–5 hours. Available in a dissolvable form for quicker action.
- Avanafil (Stendra): Works in as little as 30 minutes and lasts up to 5 hours. Can be taken with or without food.
Choosing the Right Medication
Factors to consider include:
- Duration: Tadalafil offers the longest duration.
- Speed: Avanafil works the quickest.
- Side Effects: Sildenafil and Vardenafil may cause visual disturbances, while Tadalafil is associated with muscle pain.
- Cost: Generic versions are available for Sildenafil, Tadalafil, and Vardenafil, making them more affordable.
Potential Side Effects
Most oral ED medications have mild side effects, including:
- Headache
- Flushing
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Upset stomach
- Dizziness
- Back pain
Serious but rare side effects:
- Sudden vision or hearing loss
- Prolonged erections (priapism)
Avoid oral ED medications if you:
- Take nitrates for chest pain (angina)
- Use alpha-blockers for prostate issues or high blood pressure
- Have severe liver or kidney disease
- Recently suffered a heart attack or stroke
Always consult your doctor before starting ED medications, especially if you take other prescription drugs or have chronic health conditions.
Online pharmacies make it easy to purchase ED medications, but caution is necessary:
- Verify the Pharmacy: Ensure the pharmacy is licensed. In the U.S., check the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) website.
- Avoid Counterfeits: Steer clear of “herbal Viagra” or non-prescription alternatives—they’re often unsafe and ineffective.
- Check Your Prescription: Confirm the medication, dose, and instructions match what your doctor prescribed.
