The inability to get harder erections can be linked to erectile dysfunction or impotence. If your penile remains flaccid even after getting aroused sexually, or it attains feeble erections not suitable for sexual intercourse then it is a sure sign of erectile dysfunction. There are indeed various treatment options that can help you to get harder erections, oral medications are the most preferred of them all, as they restore your erection function within an hour of consumption.
Prescription Medications for Stronger Erections
The food and drug administration (FDA) has given its approval to four medicines that can be used for the effective treatment of erectile dysfunction, that include
These medications have been through many clinical trials which prove their efficacy in treating the symptoms of erectile dysfunction. However, the same cannot be guaranteed in the case of over-the-counter ED medicines.
About ED Medications
The active components used in composing these medicines are categorized under Phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE5) inhibitors that negate the action of Phosphodiesterase type-5 enzymes, released by the endothelial cells of the penile blood vessels. The medicines with their potent formulation improve the impaired erection function and restore its function.
Popular ED Products
These medications have many generic substitutes that produce the same effects in the treatment of the erection function.
Viagra (Sildenafil) Substitutes
These are known for producing the same effects as Viagra, but at much more affordable prices compared to Viagra.
Cialis Substitutes
Vardenafil Substitutes
These medicines offer the same benefits as the branded medications but at reasonable prices.
Mechanism of Action of Prescription ED Medications
ED medicines are Phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE5) inhibitors that revive the erection function by revitalizing the impaired blood vessels of the penile. These medicines are responsible for inhibiting the action of the Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) enzymes that are found in the smooth muscle cells of the walls of the blood vessels that carry blood to the penile tissues.
Role of Nitric Oxide In ED Medications
Excessive amounts of PDE5 enzymes prevent the release of nitric oxide in the blood vessels. Nitric oxide is produced and released by the endothelial walls of the penile blood vessels which ensure the healthy operation of the erection function by expanding the blood vessels for allowing an abundant blood flow to the organ. But PDE5 enzymes suppress the nitric oxide production and clog and narrow the passages of the blood vessels of the penile and in turn blocks the blood flow to the penile organ. Lack of blood flow deteriorates erectile capability and men find it difficult to get and sustain stronger erections.
Action Of PDE-5 Enzymes
However, these medications successfully negate the action of PDE-5 enzymes by increasing the production and discharge of Nitric oxide which is one of the mediators of vasodilation. Equally impotant is nitric oxide releases the Guanylate cyclase (GC) enzyme that catalyzes the synthesis of cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP) enzymes. Thus, ED medicines metabolize the cGMP enzymes that relax the muscle blockages or strains by controlling the constriction, causing vasodilation, and regulating proper blood in the penile shaft which leads to a stronger erection suitable for sexual activity.
Side Effects of Erectile Dysfunction Medicines
Although FDA-approved ED medicines and their generics or substitutes are an excellent remedy for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, still they may not be safe for consumption in some men due to contraindications and drug interaction concerns.
Mild Side Effects
These medicines can cause side effects in the mild category. They may include nausea, headaches, flushing, insomnia, vomiting, rashes, sore throat, nasal congestion, stomachache, back pain, blurred vision, diarrhea, and dizziness. Finally, these minor effects are common and tend to disappear after some time.
Additionally, interactions of these ED medications along with some nitrates-based drugs or alpha-blockers can lead to severe effects that can be life-threatening. Therefore, men with a medical history or an ongoing medical condition must talk to their doctors. And ask them for advice before considering these ED medications.
Do Over-the-counter ED Medicines Offer the Same Benefits?
Over-the-counter ED medications refer to supplements or herbal products that are claimed by their manufacturers. To provide the same benefits as prescription ED medicines for overcoming sexual dysfunction. According to their manufacturers, these over-the-counter alternatives relax the muscles of the penile blood vessels and augment an abundant blood flow to the penile for triggering robust erections. However, in most cases, OTC medicines lack adequate research to ensure their efficacy in treating erectile dysfunction or improving sexual performance.
Hidden Ingredients In OTC Products
Also, there is a high chance that these OTC products contain some hidden ingredients that are not disclosed by their manufacturers. Usually, the information label on such unregulated medications may have a list of a few ingredients. And it may be incomplete. Although they might have a minimal effect on your sexual performance, mostly these easily available products do not guarantee effectiveness.
Most over-the-counter ED medicines cannot be fully trusted due to authenticity concerns. Since these products are not FDA-regulated like other ED medicines. FDA approval indicates that the product is safe for consumption which potentiates its efficacy and reliability. However, OTC ED medicines are marketed as sexual enhancers by their manufacturers as they lack FDA authorization.
Side Effects of Over-the-Counter ED Medicines
OTC ED medicine manufacturers market these counterfeit products very well. They advertise the product and emphasize using herbal ingredients that are said to ensure maximum benefits on sexual performance with minimum side effects. However, some undisclosed ingredients might cause trouble and potentiate the risk of health issues.
These medicines are labeled as sexual enhancers that are also capable of increasing libido and boosting your stamina, besides improving the erection function. Since these OTC supplements are not FDA-regulated, one cannot ensure their safety due to the presence of hidden ingredients. Therefore, the manufacturers market these products as sexual enhancers.
Unregulated Medications
There is a high chance that these unregulated medications might contain ingredients that can prove hazardous. Therefore, when choosing an ED medication, it is necessary to seek the assistance of a healthcare professional. That can help you to choose an appropriate ED drug according to your need and suitability. They may prescribe you the appropriate ED medicine for the effective treatment of erectile dysfunction.