Which is the Best Erectile Dysfunction Treatment for Men?

Table of Contents

• What Is Erectile Dysfunction?
• Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction
• Overview of Viagra and Other Oral ED Medications
• Sildenafil
• Viagra
• Viagra Connect
• Eropid
• Tadalafil
• Cialis
• Vardenafil
• Levitra
• Spedra
• Which Erectile Dysfunction Treatment Should I Take?

What Is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is a common problem when a male is unable to achieve or maintain an erection long enough for sexual activity or intercourse. It can be an occasional problem for men caused by stress, tiredness, obesity or consuming too much alcohol. For others, erectile dysfunction is a chronic issue caused by underlying conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, anxiety or hormone imbalances. [2] 

Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction

There are many treatment options for erectile dysfunction, depending on the cause and the specific needs of a person. Lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise and quitting smoking can help with mild cases of erectile dysfunction. Speaking to a therapist can also help to identify emotional or psychological factors and improve overall mental health. In severe cases, vacuum pumps and medical procedures such as penile implants and vascular reconstructive surgery may be considered.

Oral medication is the first-line treatment for men struggling with erectile dysfunction. A type of oral medication called phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors is taken to increase blood flow to the penis, helping to achieve and maintain an erection for sexual activity. Let’s take a look at the various PDE5 inhibitors available for treating erectile dysfunction.

Overview of Viagra and Other Oral ED Medications

Sildenafil

Often referred to as ‘generic Viagra’, Sildenafil is a type of PDE5 inhibitor that contains an active ingredient called sildenafil citrate. It works by blocking the action of the phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) enzyme, leading to increased levels of a chemical called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in the body. This chemical is responsible for relaxing the smooth muscle in the penis and blood vessels, leading to improved blood flow upon sexual stimulation and resulting in an erection. 

This medication is available on a prescription or from a pharmacy. It ranges in strength from 25mg to 100mg. The usual dosage for erectile dysfunction is one 50mg Sildenafil tablet taken around 1 hour before sexual activity. For best results, it’s recommended to take it on an empty stomach or to eat a light meal beforehand. Sildenafil takes between 30 and 60 minutes to work and the effects can last for an average of 4 hours. [3]

Sildenafil Customer Reviews - 4.8 / 5

“After reading the leaflet on how to use this product, I took it 35 mins beforehand and it worked tremendously well and lasted quite a long time, still going strong after several hours, very good. Product is available in different mg dosage and this dosage worked well for me.”

“They certainly DO WORK, i could not be happier with the price compared to other sellers online, and the effect they give as well, absolutely outstanding, will definitely be purchasing again in the very near future.”

“Very quick to be delivered great service Very happy with my item I received I will definitely be ordering again thank you for all your help.”

See more reviews about Sildenafil here.

Viagra

Viagra, also known as the ‘blue pill’ or the ‘little blue pill’, is a branded version of Sildenafil. It belongs to one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies, Pfizer and was introduced to the market in 1998. It contains sildenafil citrate as the active ingredient and works similarly to Sildenafil. It is available through a prescription in 25 mg, 50 mg and 100 mg tablets. The recommended dosage is one Viagra tablet as needed, 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity. The effects last between 4 and 5 hours. 

Viagra Customer Reviews - 4.9 / 5

“Great product, fast delivery, perfect service, thanks again”

“Tried some generic Viagra to try and save some money, works as well as the branded medication and at a cheap price. Saved a pretty penny and the order was delivered in plain packaging the next day which was the cherry on top. I would highly recommend this company. Quick and trustworthy website. Will be returning!”

“Worked better than expected”

See more reviews about Viagra here.

Viagra Connect

Viagra Connect is a similar branded medication for erectile dysfunction. It was manufactured by Pfizer in 2017 and became the first treatment for erectile dysfunction available over the counter without a prescription. The main difference between Viagra and Viagra Connect is that Viagra is available on prescription in a range of strengths from 25mg to 100mg, while Viagra Connect is only available over the counter in 50mg tablets. [4]

Viagra Connect Customer Reviews - 3.5 / 5

“Item works well, easy to use, no problems, will definitely buy again.”

See more reviews about Viagra Connect here.

Eropid

Eropid is another branded version of Sildenafil, similar to Viagra Connect. It also comes in 50mg tablets, contains Sildenafil as the active ingredient and is available over the counter in UK pharmacies without a prescription. While they work in similar ways, Eropid is a newer version and is often more affordable than Viagra Connect. It is advised to take one Eropid tablet approximately 1 hour before sexual activity on an empty stomach. The effects of Eropid can last for up to 4 hours.

Eropid Customer Reviews - 4.6 / 5

“Excellent product..works very well”

“Effective and affordable”

“Good product”

See more reviews about Eropid here.

Tadalafil

Often referred to as ‘generic Cialis’, Tadalafil is another type of PDE5 inhibitor used to treat erectile dysfunction. Tadalafil is also the name of its active ingredient. It works by encouraging blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, resulting in achieving and maintaining an erection. 

Tadalafil is available on a prescription in two variations: daily 2.5mg or 5mg dose and a 20mg and 10mg dose when needed. [5] A daily dose of one 2.5mg or 5mg Tadalafil tablet has a continuous effect, allowing for spontaneous sexual activity. On the other hand, one 20mg or 10mg tablet of Tadalafil should be taken 30 minutes before sexual activity and can last up to 36 hours. 

Tadalafil Customer Reviews - 4.8 / 5

“It simply works. Took just two days. The pills don’t need to be taken every day and the side effect in my case was a positive.”

“Tadalafil 5mg is a great safe dose to take daily. Very effective. Would recommend if you have no medical concerns that would prevent you taking this product.”

“I take these every other day, I'm 67 and getting morning glory again after years of not doing so. Erections are stronger. Don't have ED but these give me that feeling I had 20 years ago.”

To read more reviews about Tadalafil, visit here.

Cialis

Cialis is a brand-name version of Tadalafil. It contains Tadalafil as the active ingredient and was manufactured by the pharmaceutical company, Eli Lilly in 2003. Cialis is very similar to generic Tadalafil, it also has two variations: Cialis Daily is available in 2.5mg or 5mg tablets and Cialis 36 Hour is available in 10mg and 20mg tablets. Cialis is also known as the ‘weekend pill’. Cialis Daily is taken once a day for a continuous effect and one tablet of Cialis 36 Hour is taken 30 minutes before sexual activity and can last up to 36 hours.

Cialis Customer Reviews - 4.4 / 5

“Ordered Cialis and arrived next day, tried one and can vouch they do what they do very well. And very good value”

“A1 product..! Good result, no side effect.”

“Handy product when things aren't working as they should”

See more reviews about Cialis here.

Vardenafil

Known as ‘Generic Levitra’, Vardenafil is a third type of PDE5 inhibitor. It contains an active ingredient called Vardenafil Hydrochloride (HCI). Vardenafil works by relaxing the blood vessels and improving blood flow to the penis, resulting in a firm and long-lasting erection for up to 4 or 5 hours. Vardenafil will not work on its own or increase libido, sexual arousal or stimulation is required for it to work effectively. It is available in 5mg, 10mg and 20mg strength oral tablets. The recommended dosage for erectile dysfunction is one 10mg Vardenafil tablet as needed and taken 25 to 60 minutes before sexual activity. [6]

Vardenafil Customer Reviews - 4.6 / 5

“Normally use sildenafil 50mg but tried vardenafil to see if had some advantages. Found it gave a more sustained erection but was no better in terms of the facial flushing side effect. Another plus for vardenafil is that it is less affected by food intake, so this will now be my choice ED treatment, prices depending.”

“Works well and personally i find this has less side effects such as headache or stuffy nose.”

“Seems to work as described can be dissolved under the tongue no headache or major flushing”

See more reviews Vardenafil here.

Levitra

Levitra is a branded version of Vardenafil and a registered trademark of Bayer Pharmaceuticals. It contains the active ingredient, Vardenafil and works by increasing blood flow to the penis, causing and maintaining an erection for 4 to 6 hours. Levita will not work alone, sexual stimulation is also needed to achieve an erection. 

It is only available with a prescription in 5mg, 10mg and 20mg tablets. The usual dosage of erectile dysfunction is one Levitra 10mg tablet to be taken 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity. Levitra is also available in a 10mg oro-dispersible tablet which dissolves on the tongue. It takes effect within 20 to 30 minutes and lasts for around 5 hours. 

Levitra Customer Reviews - 5 / 5

“Good product”

See more reviews about Levitra here.

Spedra

Spedra is another medication that helps men who struggle with erectile dysfunction. It contains an active ingredient called Avanafil, which belongs to the same medication class as Sildenafil, Tadalafil and Vardenafil. Avanafil works to relax the blood vessels and improve blood flow to the penis, leading to an erection. Similar to other PDE5 inhibitors, sexual stimulation is required for Spedra to work effectively. It is available in 50mg, 100mg and 200mg tablets.

The recommended dosage is one Spedra tablet to be taken when needed, 30 minutes before sexual activity. It should not be taken more than once a day. Research has shown Avanafil is the fastest-acting PDE5 inhibitor available, taking effect in 15 to 30 minutes. [7] Spedra can last for an average of 4 hours before effects wear off.

Spedra Customer Reviews - 5 / 5

“Great fast delivery”

“Works better than others. with no side effects, Great.”

See more reviews about Spedra here.

Which Erectile Dysfunction Treatment Should I Take?

Erectile dysfunction is very common and is usually nothing to worry about. If it is persistent, it could be a symptom of a more serious health condition or a side effect from other medications. Before taking any treatment for erectile dysfunction, consult with your doctor to discuss your options based on your medical history and individual needs. While Sildenafil, Viagra and Tadalafil are commonly taken by men with erection problems, the best erectile dysfunction treatment can vary from person to person. It may take a few attempts to find the best medication for you.

Chemist Click offers a range of erectile dysfunction treatments through a free online consultation. Our highly qualified pharmacists will review your answers and assess your suitability for erectile dysfunction treatments. We also offer discreet and confidential delivery across the UK. If you need more help, contact our registered pharmacists by email or by phone.

Sources

1. NHS Inform. (2013). Erectile dysfunction (impotence). Retrieved 20th September 2024, from: https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/sexual-and-reproductive/erectile-dysfunction-impotence/
2. NHS. (2023). Erectile dysfunction (impotence). Retrieved 20th September 2024, from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/erection-problems-erectile-dysfunction/
3. NHS (2022). Sildenafil (Viagra). Retrieved 20th September 2024, from: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/sildenafil-viagra/
4. Viagra Connect. (2023). Frequently asked questions about Viagra Connect. Retrieved 20th September 2024, from: https://www.viagraconnect.co.uk/en-gb/using-viagra-connect/viagra-connect-faq
5. NHS (2022). Tadalafil. Retrieved 20th September 2024, from: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/tadalafil/
6. Drugs.com. (2023). Vardenafil. Retrieved 20th September 2024, from: https://www.drugs.com/mtm/vardenafil.html
7. Evans JD, Hill SR. (2015). A comparison of the available phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors in the treatment of erectile dysfunction: a focus on Avanafil. Retrieved 20th September 2024, from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4542406/

Whilst all of our content is written and reviewed by healthcare professionals, it is not intended to be substituted for or used as medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please speak to your doctor.