The function of all erectile dysfunction medications is the same, their duration of effectiveness along with potential side effects may vary depending on the difference in their composition. Individuals with erection difficulties may not be able to attain and sustain an erection. But erectile dysfunction drugs can improve their erection function.
The food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved four oral medications – Sildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil (Cialis), Vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn), and Avanafil (Stendra) for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Each of these medicines is available in different strengths and doses. Moreover, these ED medications do not cause spontaneous erections. Instead, they make it easier for men to attain stronger erections only after sexual arousal. But how to choose the best drug among these? Read on to find out.
Sildenafil (Viagra)
Sildenafil is a generic name for Viagra, and it is the most common erectile dysfunction treatment drug preferred by men. It is a well-established brand that is prescribed by most healthcare professionals. It has been there for a significant period now which is why healthcare professionals confidently prescribe them to men suffering from ED. Since Viagra’s side effects and interactions are very well known due to its prevalence, it is considered safe.
The medicine must be taken approximately half an hour before a planned sexual activity. It is better to take it on an empty stomach or two hours post meals. It is recommended to avoid the intake of large or fatty meals around the time of consuming the medicine. The effectiveness of medicine remains in the bloodstream for up to 3 to 4 hours from the time of its consumption. The medicine can be taken once every day. Its side effects include dizziness, rash, and visual disturbance.
Tadalafil (Cialis)
Cialis is the brand name for tadalafil. The medicine must be swallowed with some water around 15 to 30 minutes before sexual activity. The medicine needs to be taken on an empty stomach or two hours after a light meal. Make sure you do not consume heavy or oily meals before using the medicine, such foods can delay the effects of the medication.
The medicine is known for its prolonged duration of action as its effectiveness stays in the bloodstream for up to 36 hours or even more. Its effects for an extensive period offer spontaneity to men so that they can engage in sexual activity several times without having to plan. The medicine with a high dose must be taken once in 2 days owing to its prolonged effectiveness. Its side effects include back pain, muscle pain, headache, flushing, and stomach discomfort.
Vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn)
Vardenafil is sold under two brand names Levitra and Staxyn. The pill should be taken only once a day, preferably on an empty stomach or two hours after a light meal. The effects of the drug will be noticeable after 25 to 60 minutes of its consumption. And its effectiveness runs actively in the bloodstream for around 4 to 6 hours after its consumption. Abstain from consuming large and fatty meals around the time of using these medicines.
Avanafil (Stendra)
Avanafil is also a PDE5 inhibitor that is sold under the brand name Stendra. The pill must be swallowed with some water almost 30 minutes before anticipated sex. Your doctor will prescribe you an appropriate dose according to the severity of the erection difficulty. It is necessary to maintain some gap between food and medical consumption. Also, heavy, and fatty meals can impact the assimilation of the medicine into the bloodstream. The effectiveness of avanafil can stay in the bloodstream for up to 6 hours, hence its safe recommended dose is only once a day.
Effectiveness of ED Drugs
ED drugs with their potent formulation help to improve erectile capabilities. These drugs do not trigger spontaneous erections, it is necessary to initiate sexual stimulation that causes augmentation of blood to the penile. Erection is a physiological response to sexual arousal. It is attained when the brain releases chemicals to signal it to the autonomic nervous system for promoting an erection.
Meanwhile, the penile blood vessels dilate and relax so that an abundant amount of blood can enter the penile tissues and chambers. Thus, the blood extends to the penile shaft for triggering an erection. And the blood vessels of the penile close off so that the erection is sustained.
How Do ED Drugs Work?
ED drugs are PDE-5 inhibitors that help negate the action of PDE-5 enzymes in the wall of blood vessels. These PDE-5 enzymes are responsible for narrowing the passages of the blood vessels of the penile due to plaque formation. These enzymes clog them and hinder the proper flow of blood to the penile.
PDE-5 inhibitors efficiently suppress PDE-5 activity in the endothelial walls of the blood vessels which leads to the discharge of Nitric oxide (NO) into the vascular tissues of the penile. Nitric oxide thus released, causes the synthesis, and rise of the level of cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP) enzymes in the penile blood vessel walls. It relaxes the strained blood vessels by managing constriction. Further, it causes vasodilation in the penile shaft which leads to abundant blood circulation throughout the penile, thus producing harder erections.
Which ED Drug is Most Effective?
FDA -approval makes these ED medicines safe for consumption. However, it is necessary to consult your physician for the appropriate dose. A medicine belonging to a particular brand might not be suitable for everyone due to contraindications and interaction issues. Your physician will help you to get a suitable medicine after examining the severity of your erectile difficulties. They will also ask you some questions regarding your health, medical illness, medical history, etc. Based on the investigation, they may suggest ED medicines of a particular brand that is best suited to your condition.