Medicines that you take by mouth are called oral medications. They serve as the primary treatment option for erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition where achieving or maintaining an erection becomes challenging. Oral medications for ED typically demonstrate good efficacy and are associated with minimal side effects. Many men find them to be a convenient and effective solution to improve their sexual health.

The four main oral medications for erectile dysfunction are:

• Avanafil (Stendra)
• Sildenafil (Viagra)
• Tadalafil (Cialis)
• Vardenafil

These medications fall under the category of PDE5 inhibitors. These drugs amplify the effects of nitric oxide, a naturally occurring chemical in the body that facilitates muscle relaxation in the penis. This muscle relaxation allows increased blood flow, which is essential for obtaining an erection in response to sexual stimulation.

How Oral Medicines Differ

Each oral medication for erectile dysfunction has distinct chemical structures, which results in variations in their efficacy, onset of action, duration, and side effects. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help you choose the appropriate medication based on these differences, alongside your personal health status and other medications you may be taking.

• Sildenafil (Viagra): This medication is most effective when taken on an empty stomach approximately one hour before sexual activity. It may take longer to take effect if consumed after a high-fat meal or in conjunction with alcohol. The effects generally last for about 4 to 5 hours, and some users with mild to moderate ED may find it to be effective for a longer duration.
• Vardenafil: Similarly taken on an empty stomach an hour prior to sexual activity, vardenafil can also be affected by food intake. This medication is effective for about 4 to 5 hours, with a new formulation available that dissolves under the tongue for potentially faster action.
• Tadalafil (Cialis): Tadalafil can be ingested with or without food and is known for its long-lasting effects, which can extend up to 36 hours. It is available in both low-dose and as-needed dosing, allowing for flexibility in planning sexual activity.
• Avanafil (Stendra): This medication can be taken with or without food, approximately 30 minutes prior to sexual activity. Its effects last around 4 to 5 hours, and might be prolonged in individuals with mild to moderate ED.

All these medications proved effective for treating ED. When discussing options with your healthcare provider, it is vital to consider factors such as your budget, preference for administration, duration of action, and potential side effects. Generic versions are available for sildenafil, vardenafil, and tadalafil, potentially offering cost-effective alternatives.

When Oral Medications Might Not Be Safe

Before starting any oral medication for erectile dysfunction, it is crucial to discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider. Certain medications may interact negatively or pose risks if you also take:

• Nitrate medications: Often prescribed for angina or chest pain, medications such as nitroglycerin can have serious interactions with PDE5 inhibitors.
• Alpha-blockers: Commonly used for hypertension or benign prostatic hyperplasia, alpha-blockers like dutasteride and finasteride might complicate erectile dysfunction treatment.
• Enzyme blockers: Medications that inhibit CYP3A4, such as certain antifungal medications, can alter the metabolism of erectile dysfunction drugs.

Oral medications for ED may also pose risks or be ineffective if you have certain medical conditions, including:

• Severe hypotension or uncontrolled hypertension.
• Advanced liver disease or severe kidney impairment.
• Recent history of cardiovascular events, including heart attacks or strokes.
• Inherited retinopathies that affect visual health.

Side Effects

Though generally well-tolerated, oral medications for erectile dysfunction can produce side effects, often mild in nature. Common side effects include:

• Facial flushing
• Headaches
• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Visual alterations, including a blue tint or increased sensitivity to light
• Nasal congestion or rhinorrhea
• Muscle soreness
• Dizziness or lightheadedness

In rare cases, serious adverse effects may occur, such as:

• Hearing or vision loss: Although rare, some individuals have reported sudden losses in these senses post-medication, necessitating immediate medical evaluation.
• Priapism: A prolonged erection lasting more than four hours can be painful and requires immediate medical treatment to prevent permanent penile damage.

Buying Oral Erectile Dysfunction Medications Online

The market for erectile dysfunction treatments is vast, and unfortunately, it includes many fraudulent online pharmacies. If you opt to purchase medications over the internet, ensure you follow these guidelines:

• Verify the pharmacy's legitimacy: Avoid online pharmacies that do not provide a physical address, contact number, or require no prescription. Reputable pharmacies will have licensed pharmacists available to address concerns. In the United States, the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy can verify the legitimacy of online pharmacies.
• Confirm prescription accuracy: Check that the medication received matches the prescription regarding both type and dosage.
• Avoid "herbal viagra": Many products marketed as herbal or non-prescription ED treatments lack efficacy and can contain harmful ingredients. Steer clear of these options.