Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to obtain or maintain an erection during a sexual engagement. ED is also known as impotence. It can be a temporary or ongoing issue caused by various factors such as stress, anxiety, hormonal imbalances, certain medical conditions, or medications. ED can significantly impact a man's quality of life, self-esteem, and relationships.
ED can develop on a consistent or sporadic basis. Occasional ED is not rare. Many people encounter it during stressful times or as a result of a recent dietary or lifestyle change.
Consistent ED episodes, on the other hand, might indicate an underlying health issue that requires treatment. It may also be an indication of emotional or interpersonal issues that you should discuss with your healthcare professional.
How Common is Erectile Dysfunction?
Studies show that the prevalence of ED increases with age, and it is estimated that about 50% of men over 40 experience some degree of ED. However, it can also occur in younger men and be related to various physical and psychological factors.
However, growing older does not necessarily have to be related to erectile dysfunction. Older men should still be able to get an erection and enjoy sexual activity, even though some may need more stimulation.
Symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction
The most common symptoms of erectile dysfunction are trouble getting an erection and difficulty retaining it during sexual intercourse. Other symptoms may include;
- Anorgasmia, or the failure to attain orgasm even after enough stimulation
- Premature ejaculation or delayed ejaculation or both
- Reduced sexual desire
Causes of Erectile Dysfunction
Many factors, including vascular conditions like atherosclerosis, which can impede blood flow to the penis, which can lead to ED. The following physical factors can cause damage to nerves carrying impulses to the penis.
- Heart disease
- Diabetes and hypertension
- Hyperlipidemia or high cholesterol
- Obesity
- Hypothyroidism
- Hypogonadism or low testosterone level
- Kidney or liver disease
- Sleep apnea
- High alcohol consumption and tobacco
- Epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
Some emotional factors can too cause ED and may include:
- Anxiety and depression
- Stress and trauma
- Impaired relationships
ED can be caused by only one or a combination of many factors from the list above. Hence, it is always essential to consult with your doctor so that the exact cause can be found and you can undergo proper treatment.
Where Can I Get ED Pills Safely?
The safest avenue for buying ED medications is recognized pharmacies. A pharmacist can respond to a person's inquiries about ED medications and tell them of any potential adverse effects. Those who would instead fill their prescriptions online in the United States should pick a reliable online pharmacy with a pharmacist on staff to assist with any issues.
The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy has given its seal of approval to reliable internet pharmacies. A person shouldn't buy ED medications from websites that don't provide contact information, have substantially lower pricing than pharmacies, or do not require a prescription.
Medications
Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors are mainly used to treat ED. People can take inhibitors from trusted sources. By inhibiting the phosphodiesterase enzyme, which causes an erection to terminate, these medications extend the duration of erections. PDE-5 inhibitors, however, won't function if a person doesn't have libido or a sexual urge. The following oral drugs increase blood flow to your penis and help treat ED.
| Drug |
Recommended Dosage. |
| Viagra/ Sildenafil. |
25 to 100 mg/ day (available in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets). |
| Levitra/ Vardenafil. |
5 to 20 mg/day (available in 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg tablets). |
| Cialis/Tadalafil. |
5 to 20 mg/day (available in 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg tablets). |
Doctors may advise a varied dosage based on the effectiveness and adverse effects a patient may encounter when taking any of these medications.
Where to buy Erectile Dysfunction medications online?
You can buy online medications from iLive Active
iLiveActive is an online telehealth company that provides prescriptions for various conditions, including ED. Here are some ED medicines available here, along with their dosage and their functions.
Viagra/Sildenafil
Viagra is an FDA-approved treatment for erectile dysfunction. The generic version of the brand Viagra is called sildenafil.
How does sildenafil work?
Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor. Your body contains a protein called PDE-5 that breaks down the common erection-inducing substances. Sildenafil aids an erection by allowing particular penis muscles to relax and the penis to fill with blood when it inhibits PDE-5.
Typical dosage for sildenafil
The dosage is 50 mg of sildenafil by mouth, about one hour before sex, as needed or as directed by the physician. The maximum recommended dosage is 100 mg. Never take sildenafil more than once daily.
How To Take Sildenafil
Based on all the details you provide, your iLiveActive doctor will suggest the ideal starting dose. Typically, doctors prescribe 60 mg as a starting dose, which means taking three of the 20 mg pills at a time.
One dose every 24 hours is the maximum one can take. Avoid eating or drinking grapefruit on the same day you have taken sildenafil because it increases the risk of side effects.
Side-effects
The side effects may include:
- Headache
- Upset stomach
- Minor vision changes
- Nasal congestion
- Back and muscle pain
- Nausea
- Mild dizziness, and rash
Mostly, these side effects will go away on their own, but if they don't, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Levitra/ Vardenafil
Another PDE-5 inhibitor used for treating erectile dysfunction is Levitra. The generic version of this medication is vardenafil. It works by increasing blood flow to specific body parts. Starting rate of this pill is $24/pill.
Side-effects
The side effects of Levitra may include:
- Headache
- Flushing
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
Visit your doctor immediately if the side effects continue for a prolonged period.
Cialis/Tadalafil
Cialis is another PDE-5 inhibitor used to treat erectile dysfunction. The generic version of the drug Cialis is called tadalafil. This drug helps obtain and maintain an erection for a longer time. It is best taken 30 to 60 minutes before sex. The weekend pill is a long-acting drug that lasts up to 36 hours. Starting rate of this pill is $3/pill.
Side-effects
The following are the most frequently reported side effects of Cialis.
- Headache
- Indigestion
- Back and muscular pain
- Flushing
- Stuffy nose
You must visit your healthcare practitioner if the side effects linger.
How to buy?
iLiveActive delivers the recommended prescription to your doorstep following a doctor's in-person diagnosis.
- Healthcare professionals: The online platform uses licensed healthcare professionals, including doctors, that advise individuals and prescribe medication.
- Prescriptions: The online pharmacy offers prescription medications.
- Contact details: You need to provide your contact details..
- Delivery: Medications will be delivered to your doorstep.
Can you buy ED pills safely without a prescription?
It is unsafe to purchase ED medications without the consultation of a doctor or pharmacist. There is a greater possibility that unprescribed ED medications can come from an unreliable supplier and could be counterfeited.
PDE-5 inhibitors and other medications may also interact poorly. For instance, people who combine sildenafil with medications that include nitrates may experience dangerously low blood pressure.
The Bottom Line:
You can often improve your ED symptoms. There are several drugs and therapies available.
Your line of treatment will be determined by some criteria, including the severity of your ED or any underlying medical condition. Your doctor will work with you carefully to discuss the merits and demerits of each form of treatment. You should always remember that ED is a common condition that can be resolved with timely consultation with your doctor and proper therapy.