Starting out with erectile dysfunction (ED) medications can be intimidating. To help ensure a positive experience, it's crucial to arm yourself with practical advice and insights.
Here are five essential tips grounded in research and expert recommendations.
Understand how ED medications work
ED medications usually function by increasing blood flow to the penis, aiding in establishing and maintaining an erection hard enough for sex.1 Popular options include Tadalafil Daily and Sildenafil, each with varying onset times and durations. It’s important to understand the differences in these medications in order to choose the most suitable option for your individual needs.
Commonly prescribed medications include:
Tadalafil Daily: This lower-dose option is taken daily, eliminating the need to time medication around sexual activities. It is particularly suitable for individuals in relationships with frequent activity. One study showed that 85% of patients taking Tadalafil Daily reported improved erections, compared to 28% in the placebo group.¹ ²
Tadalafil: This medication is taken 30 minutes prior to sexual activity and offers effectiveness for up to 36 hours, allowing for more spontaneity. Specifically, research revealed that 59% of intercourse attempts were successful 36 hours after taking Tadalafil, compared to 28% in the placebo group.³ ⁴
Sildenafil: Typically taken one hour before sexual activity, Sildenafil remains effective for up to four hours, making it an ideal choice for planned, infrequent encounters. In a study, Sildenafil achieved an 82% success rate for successful intercourse among patients with erectile dysfunction.⁵ ⁶
Consult with a healthcare professional
Before beginning any ED medication, you should consult a healthcare professional. A doctor can assess your overall health, consider the potential impact of any existing medications or conditions, and offer personalised advice to help ensure a safe and effective experience tailored to your situation.
Manage expectations
While ED medications can positively impact sexual performance, it's important to manage expectations. These medications address the physical aspects of performance, but emotional and physical intimacy with your partner remains essential. Focus on your connection and shared experience rather than solely the outcome to help alleviate performance anxiety. Remember, these medications aren’t magic pills; they work alongside arousal and will not cause instant or constant erections.
Recognise and manage side effects
Being aware of potential side effects, such as headaches, flushing, or upset stomach, allows for better management.2 It's important that you read the patient information leaflet provided with your treatment before use so that you are aware of what to look out for. Should side effects occur, consult your doctor for advice on managing or mitigating these symptoms. This knowledge ensures you’re prepared and confident when using these medications.
Have a backup plan
It’s wise to have a fallback plan to enjoy the evening even if the medication doesn’t have the desired effect. For example, while sildenafil is proven to be effective for about 82% of men, it may not work for everyone.2 If it doesn't work for you, remember that it's not your fault - many factors can influence its effectiveness, such as stress, alcohol, or underlying health conditions. If your first choice isn’t working, you can explore other treatment options. Your clinician can help you navigate through alternatives like other medications, lifestyle changes, or even therapies that could be a better fit for your needs.
In addition to medical treatments, you could explore alternative forms of intimacy to build connection and alleviate pressure. If getting an erection isn’t the only end goal there’s less pressure on it to happen. Planning for flexibility can enhance the experience, allowing both you and your partner to relax and enjoy the moment. After all, relaxing is key to successful sex.
Your clinician can guide you toward the right combination of treatments and strategies, tailored to what works best for your body and relationship.
The numan take
If you’re a first-time ED medication user, understanding the medication, consulting experts, managing expectations, and being prepared for side effects are important aspects to consider. Most importantly, with a backup plan, you can enhance your experience, focusing on both physical and emotional connections.
References
1.) Mohamed Gharib, T., Abdel-Al, I., Elatreisy, A., Kandeel, W., El-Shaer, W., Abdrabuh, A. M., Mohamed Salih, E., & Sebaey, A. (2022). Short- and long-term follow-up results of daily 5-mg tadalafil as a treatment for erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation. Arab journal of urology, 20(1), 49–53. https://doi.org/10.1080/2090598X.2021.2024695
2.) Porst, H., Giuliano, F., Glina, S., Ralph, D., Casabé, A. R., Elion-Mboussa, A., Shen, W., & Whitaker, J. S. (2006). Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of once-a-day dosing of Tadalafil 5 mg and 10 mg in the treatment of erectile dysfunction: Results of a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. European Urology, 50(2), 351-359.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eururo.2006.02.052
3.) Frajese, G. V., Pozzi, F., & Frajese, G. (2006). Tadalafil in the treatment of erectile dysfunction; an overview of the clinical evidence. Clinical interventions in aging, 1(4), 439–449. https://doi.org/10.2147/ciia.2006.1.4.439
4.) Porst, H., Padma-Nathan, H., Giuliano, F., Anglin, G., Varanese, L., & Rosen, R. (2003). Efficacy of tadalafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction at 24 and 36 hours after dosing: A randomized controlled trial. Urology, 62(1), 121-126.https://doi.org/10.1016/S0090-4295(03)00359-5
5. ) Eardley, I., Ellis, P., Boolell, M., & Wulff, M. (2002). Onset and duration of action of sildenafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. British journal of clinical pharmacology, 53 Suppl 1(Suppl 1), 61S–65S. https://doi.org/10.1046/j.0306-5251.2001.00034.
6.) Guay, A. T., Perez, J. B., Jacobson, J. S., & Newton, R. A. (2001). Efficacy and safety of sildenafil citrate for treatment of erectile dysfunction in a population with associated organic risk factors. Journal of Andrology, 22(5), 793-797. https://doi.org/10.1002/j.1939-4640.2001.tb02582.x
