Ever since erectile dysfunction (ED) medications were first introduced, researchers and medical professionals have been diligently exploring various formulations that could be more convenient for patients. One of the significant hurdles many individuals face is the difficulty of swallowing traditional pills. Additionally, some prefer a more private or discreet method of administration that doesn’t require the use of a glass of water. This increased need for convenience has led to the development of chewable tablets as a promising alternative.
In the United States, the only option currently available for chewable ED tablets is through the online subscription service, BlueChew. According to the information available on their official website, they provide chewable forms of two well-known drugs: sildenafil (commonly recognized as Viagra) and tadalafil (known as Cialis). This makes it easier than ever for patients to access these treatments.
While the active ingredients within these chewable products have garnered approval from the FDA, it's important to note that the chewable variants themselves have not received separate approval from regulatory authorities.
Differing from conventional ED pills, chewable tablets are not manufactured directly by large pharmaceutical companies within the United States. Instead, they are produced at specialized compounding pharmacies, which create tailored medications closely aligned with patient needs. A licensed doctor who works with BlueChew conducts an online consultation to prescribe these medications specifically for you.
Once prescribed, the tablets are shipped directly to your home, ensuring privacy and convenience. The monthly subscription fees typically range between $20 to $120, plus any applicable tax and shipping charges, varying according to the number of tablets you require. Importantly, you maintain the option to cancel your subscription at any time, providing flexibility in managing your healthcare.
Compounding pharmacies offer a unique service by customizing medications when standard formulations are not available for purchase. BlueChew collaborates with various state-licensed compounding pharmacies throughout the United States or can work with a compounding pharmacy of your choice. If you’re interested in exploring options, the Professional Compounding Centers of America (PCCA) also offers a search tool to help you find a suitable pharmacy.
Sildenafil was the pioneering oral medication approved by the FDA for treating erectile dysfunction. It falls under the category of drugs known as PDE5 inhibitors. This class of medications works by inhibiting the enzyme PDE5, which can restrict blood flow to the penile region, thus facilitating improved erections.
The chewable formulation operates in the same manner as the traditional sildenafil pill. Users typically take it as needed, approximately one hour prior to sexual activity, and can expect its effects to endure for four to six hours. It's advisable to avoid consuming a high-fat meal just before taking sildenafil, as the presence of fat in your bloodstream may slow down the onset of its effects.
The chewable versions come in doses of 30 milligrams and 45 milligrams, which is slightly different from the standard 25 milligram and 50 milligram doses of traditional pills, typically prescribed for patients over and under 65 years of age, respectively. Additionally, traditional sildenafil is also available in a higher 100-milligram dose.
A comparison study assessing the chewable and pill forms indicated that potential side effects were similar in nature across both formats. The reported side effects included:
- Temporary vision disturbances
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Hot flashes
- Flushing
- Diarrhea
- Nasal congestion or runniness
- Nausea
- Indigestion
In most instances, side effects were mild and tended to resolve without any intervention.
Tadalafil, like sildenafil, is classified as a PDE5 inhibitor. One remarkable feature of tadalafil is its long duration of action, lasting up to 36 hours, thereby granting users greater flexibility concerning when to take it. Patients can decide to take it on an as-needed basis or opt for a daily regimen. However, it is essential to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they can significantly alter the metabolism of tadalafil in the body.
The chewable formulations are offered in doses of 6 milligrams or 9 milligrams. In contrast, the traditional tadalafil tablets come in single doses of 10 milligrams or 20 milligrams, along with a 5-milligram daily option.
The common side effects experienced with tadalafil use include:
- Headaches
- Nasal congestion or runniness
- Nausea
- Indigestion
- Abdominal discomfort
- Back pain
- Muscle aches
These side effects are typically mild and usually subside on their own within a short period.
Currently, there isn't extensive research specifically comparing the chewable versions of these medications. Nevertheless, a comprehensive review published in 2017 indicated that tadalafil and sildenafil exhibit comparable mechanisms of action and side effect profiles. One notable distinction identified was that many participants in the study reported increased confidence when using tadalafil. This increased confidence may stem from tadalafil's longer duration of effect—up to 36 hours, compared to 12 hours for sildenafil.
It’s crucial to understand that no erectile dysfunction medication is considered safe for individuals who are also taking nitrates for heart conditions, as the combination can lead to dangerously low blood pressure levels. Always discuss your complete list of medications with the healthcare provider managing your ED. This discussion is vital for avoiding harmful interactions with blood pressure medications or any other drugs.
Other innovative delivery methods for erectile dysfunction medications include films and tablets designed to dissolve quickly on or under the tongue, which also eliminate the need for water. These alternative formats may offer faster onset of action compared to conventional pills.
An additional PDE5 inhibitor, vardenafil, which is the active ingredient found in Levitra, is available as a dissolving tablet (Staxyn). This formulation should be taken about one hour before activity and allowed to dissolve completely on the tongue.
Early studies evaluating the sildenafil film suggest that a 100-milligram dose may provide effects comparable to those of the traditional coated pill. This dissolving format is now available in Europe, expanding options for ED treatment.