Prescription ED medication: what works, what to watch for

Struggling with erectile dysfunction? Prescription ED medication can work fast—but choosing the right option and buying safely matter.

Common prescription options are PDE5 inhibitors: sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra) and avanafil. They improve blood flow and help most men get and keep an erection. Start low and adjust: typical starting doses are sildenafil 50 mg taken about an hour before sex, tadalafil 10 mg (or 2.5–5 mg daily for continuous use), and vardenafil 10 mg. Take note: tadalafil lasts much longer—up to 36 hours.

Side effects are usually mild—headache, flushing, nasal congestion, and upset stomach. Serious problems are rare but include a sudden loss of vision or hearing, or priapism (an erection lasting more than four hours). If you use nitrates for chest pain or certain recreational drugs, PDE5 drugs can dangerously lower blood pressure. Always tell your doctor about all medicines you take.

If pills don't work or aren't suitable, there are other prescription choices: penile injections (alprostadil), vacuum erection devices, urethral suppositories, and implants for severe cases. Counseling and lifestyle changes—lose weight, quit smoking, reduce heavy drinking, and treat sleep apnea—often help sexual function and boost medication effect.

Cost matters. Generics for sildenafil and tadalafil are widely available and cheaper. If you buy online, use only licensed pharmacies—look for a physical address, pharmacist contact, clear prescription requirements, and real customer reviews. Very low prices and no prescription should be a red flag. Our guides on buying medication online walk through checks to spot scams and save safely.

How to pick the right ED drug

Choose based on how fast you need it, how long you want it to work, side effects, other health conditions, and cost. Doctors will check blood pressure, heart disease, and drugs you take. If you have heart disease, you'll likely need a clearance from your cardiologist before using PDE5 inhibitors.

Quick safety checklist

Quick safety checklist: get a prescription; don't rely on online quizzes alone. Tell your doctor about nitrates, alpha-blockers, and grapefruit. Start at the recommended dose and avoid heavy alcohol before sex. Buy from verified pharmacies only and keep receipts. If you get an erection longer than four hours, seek emergency care.

Final quick tip: talk openly with your partner and doctor. Sexual side effects are common, and an honest conversation speeds up finding a safe, effective solution. Read our article on alternatives to Viagra for non-pill options and check guides about buying meds safely online before you order.

Monitoring and follow-up: After starting treatment, expect a follow-up within 4–12 weeks to check effectiveness and side effects. Blood tests may be needed if you have liver or kidney disease. If meds help at first but stop working, tell your doctor—doses can change or a different treatment may work better. Never mix PDE5 drugs with recreational nitrates or poppers. If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, controlling those conditions often improves results.

Cost-saving tips: ask about coupons, generic options, and patient assistance programs. Compare verified pharmacies, and never skip the prescription — it's there for your safety.

Talk to your doctor.