Which Erectile Dysfunction Medication is Right for You?

What is erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability of a man to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for his sexual needs or the needs of his partner. Most men experience this at some point in their lives, usually by age 40, and are not psychologically affected by it.

However, some men, experience chronic, complete erectile dysfunction (impotence), and others, partial or brief erections. Frequent erectile dysfunction can cause emotional and relationship problems, and often leads to diminished self-esteem. Erectile dysfunction has many causes, most of which are treatable.

What medications are available?

There are three oral drugs approved by the FDA to treat erectile dysfunction: Cialis, Levitra, and Viagra. All work by increasing the flow of blood into the penis so that when a man is sexually stimulated, he can get an erection.

What are the differences between each medication?

Cialis, Levitra, and Viagra work by a similar mechanism to cause erections. There are subtle differences in how long the drug works and how quickly it works. Levitra works a little longer than Viagra. They both take effect in about 30 minutes. With Levitra, the effects last for about 5 hours. With Viagra, the effects last approximately 4 hours.
Cialis works a bit faster (within about 15 minutes), and the effects last much longer — up to 36 hours in some cases.

What are the side effects?

Side effects are not common but they can occur. Side effects can include:

◊ Headache

◊ Upset stomach or ‘ heartburn’

◊ Flushing (feeling warm)

◊ Nasal congestion

◊ Changes in vision (color, glare)

◊ Back pain (with Cialis)

◊ Priapism

Call your doctor if you experience severe forms of these symptoms or if they do not go away after 4-8 hours.

What is priapism?

Priapism is defined as an abnormal persistent erection of the penis. It is an involuntary prolonged erection unrelated to sexual stimulation and unrelieved by ejaculation.

As with many medical emergencies, the saying “time is tissue” holds true for priapism. This condition is a true urologic emergency, and early intervention allows the best chance for functional recovery.

It can occur in all age groups, including newborns. However, it usually affects men between the ages of 5 to 10 years and 20 to 50 years.