ED medications: what they do and how to pick the right one

About 1 in 10 men will face erectile problems at some point. ED medications can restore sexual function fast, but they’re not all the same. This page gives clear, practical info on common drugs, how they work, side effects to watch for, and safe ways to buy them online.

Quick comparison: common ED pills

PDE5 inhibitors are the main group—these boost blood flow to the penis. Here’s the short version:

• Sildenafil (Viagra, generic): Works in 30–60 minutes, lasts about 4–6 hours. Good for planned encounters.
• Tadalafil (Cialis): Starts in ~30 minutes, can last up to 36 hours. Useful if you prefer spontaneity or daily low-dose use.
• Vardenafil (Levitra): Similar to sildenafil, sometimes better for men with diabetes.
• Avanafil (Stendra): Faster onset for some men—can work in 15–30 minutes.
• Others: Alprostadil (injection or urethral pellet) and mechanical options for men who can’t take PDE5s.

Pick based on how quickly you need it to work, how long you want it to last, and what side effects you tolerate.

What you need to know about safety and side effects

Common side effects are headache, flushing, stuffy nose, and upset stomach. A few important warnings:

• Never mix PDE5 inhibitors with nitrates (heart pills like nitroglycerin). That combo can drop blood pressure dangerously.
• If you have unstable heart disease, recent stroke, or very low blood pressure, talk to your doctor before using ED meds.
• Some drugs interact with antibiotics, antifungals, and certain heart medicines. Mention everything you take to your prescriber.
• A sudden loss of vision or hearing is rare but serious—stop the drug and get medical help immediately.

Start at a low dose when you first try a pill. If it doesn't work, don’t double up—check with your doctor. Avoid heavy drinking before sex; alcohol can blunt effectiveness and increase side effects.

Low testosterone can cause ED too. If you have low libido and fatigue alongside erection trouble, ask your clinician about a hormone check.

Thinking of buying ED meds online? Use these quick checks: the site should require a prescription, show a real pharmacy license, have clear contact info, and have real customer reviews. Be wary of prices that look too good to be true—fake or unsafe pills are common. For more on safe online buying, see our guides on buying Cialis, finding Fildena deals, and choosing trustworthy online pharmacies.

If you want a personalized plan, tell your doctor about other health conditions, meds, and how often you need treatment. With the right choice and a safe buying route, ED meds can be a reliable part of getting your sex life back on track.