Erectile dysfunction treatment: practical options that work

Erectile dysfunction (ED) happens more often than people think — roughly 30% of men in their 50s report some trouble getting or keeping an erection. Causes range from blood flow and nerve problems to medicines, hormones, stress, or lifestyle. The good news: most causes are treatable. Below I’ll walk through the common options, what to expect, and when to see a doctor.

Oral medicines and quick fixes

Most men start with PDE5 inhibitors — pills like sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra). They boost blood flow to the penis but only work with sexual arousal. Sildenafil and vardenafil typically help for several hours; tadalafil can last up to 36 hours. Common side effects are headache, flushing, and stuffy nose. Important safety note: don’t use these drugs with nitrates (meds for chest pain) — the combo can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Tell your doctor about heart disease, strokes, or other medications before trying pills.

If low testosterone is part of the problem, hormone testing may be offered. Testosterone replacement can help when levels are low, but it’s not a cure-all and has its own risks and follow-up needs.

Non-oral and surgical options

Vacuum erection devices are a simple, drug-free option. You use a pump to draw blood into the penis and then slip on a rubber ring to keep the erection. They’re reliable and low-risk. For stronger medical options, alprostadil injections into the penis often work when pills do not. There’s also an intraurethral pellet (a small suppository placed into the urethra) that can produce an erection.

When other treatments fail or aren’t suitable, penile implants are a long-term solution. Inflatable implants give a more natural result but need surgery; malleable rods are simpler but always firm. Implants have high satisfaction rates but carry surgical risks like infection and device failure. Discuss pros and cons with a urologist.

Don’t overlook lifestyle and mental health. Quitting smoking, losing excess weight, controlling diabetes and blood pressure, cutting back on alcohol, and improving sleep often improve erectile function. Anxiety, depression, and relationship stress are common contributors — counseling or sex therapy can be as effective as medical treatments for some men.

Safety tip if you buy meds online: verify the pharmacy. Look for clear contact info, licensing, and secure payment. Our site has guides on how to spot fake pharmacies and avoid unsafe products.

See a doctor right away if ED appears suddenly, follows pelvic or spinal injury, or comes with chest pain, fainting, or shortness of breath. For gradual problems, start with your primary care clinician for basic tests and referrals. Treatment is personal — talk openly about costs, side effects, and what you and your partner prefer. With the right approach most men regain satisfying sexual function.