Medication for erectile dysfunction

At Andrology Valencia, we will try to resolve your erectile dysfunction problem from a multidisciplinary perspective and provide the appropriate tools for each patient and their specific situation, seeking emotional well-being for you and your partner.

What is erectile dysfunction?

It is the persistent inability of a man to achieve and/or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual activity. Erectile dysfunction is considered to be present when the erection problem persists for at least 3 months.
Its frequency increases with age, and it is estimated that approximately 52% of the population between the ages of 40 and 70 suffer from erectile dysfunction.

At Andrology Valencia, we have specialists in urology and sexology who offer a comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and treatment of erectile dysfunction. Our urologists and sexologists work together to identify the underlying physical and emotional causes, offering personalised solutions for each patient.

What medications are available for erectile dysfunction?

There are various pharmacological treatments for erectile dysfunction, designed to improve the ability to achieve and maintain an erection. These medications work by promoting blood flow to the penis or correcting hormonal imbalances, depending on the patient’s needs. The choice of medication depends on the underlying cause, the individual’s overall health, and medical recommendations.

It is highly recommended that you be evaluated by a urologist specialising in erectile dysfunction before starting any treatment.

Oral medications

Oral medications to treat erectile dysfunction, such as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, are the most common and effective option. These medications work by relaxing the blood vessels in the penis, facilitating the blood flow necessary to achieve an erection. Their use must be prescribed by a doctor, taking into account factors such as the cause of the problem and the patient’s overall health.

Intraurethral suppositories or creams

Intraurethral drugs for erectile dysfunction are administered directly into the urethra using a small suppository or syringe. The most common medication is alprostadil (PGE1), which dilates blood vessels and improves blood flow to the penis, facilitating erection. This treatment may be an option for those who do not respond well to oral medications or even as a first option in selected cases.

Intracavernous injections

Intracavernosal drugs for treating erectile dysfunction are administered by direct injection into the corpora cavernosa of the penis. The most common is alprostadil (PGE1), although combinations with other drugs such as phentolamine or papaverine may also be used. These treatments cause an erection by increasing blood flow. They are commonly used in cases where oral and/or intraurethral drugs have been unsuccessful or are not appropriate due to contraindications or side effects.

Hormone therapy

Hormone therapy to treat erectile dysfunction is used when there are hormonal imbalances, such as low testosterone levels. Treatment may include testosterone in the form of injections, patches, or gels. This helps restore normal hormone levels, improving sexual function and libido. However, it is not effective for all cases of erectile dysfunction, especially if the cause is vascular, neurological, or psychological.

Among oral medications, Which one is most suitable for me?

Oral medications that have been shown to be effective for erectile dysfunction are phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Below is a brief description of some of the most commonly used medications.

Sildenafil (Viagra)

Sildenafil is one of the most popular treatments for erectile dysfunction. Its main advantage is its rapid effectiveness, as it is usually taken 1 hour before sexual activity. Its action lasts between 5 and 7 hours, allowing adequate time for sexual stimulation. Sildenafil is widely recognised and has been used by many patients due to its proven efficacy in various clinical studies.

Tadalafil (Cialis)

Tadalafil stands out for its long duration of up to 35 hours, making it a convenient option for those who prefer more flexibility when it comes to sexual activity. It can also be taken in a low daily dose, allowing you to be ready for an erection without having to plan when to take the medicine. It is useful for both erectile dysfunction and the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Vardenafil (Levitra)

Vardenafil is fast-acting, similar to sildenafil, but some people experience a faster response when taking it. It is used 1 hour before sexual activity and lasts for 7 to 8 hours. It is particularly effective for those seeking a flexible, on-demand treatment, and is well tolerated by most patients with proper medical supervision.

Avanafil (Spedra)

Avanafil is known for its very rapid action, starting to work within 30 minutes after taking it. This makes it ideal for those who prefer treatment with less advance notice before sexual activity. Its effect lasts around 6 to 12 hours and is less likely to cause side effects due to its safety profile. In addition, it has good tolerability, making it suitable for many patients who do not respond to other medications.

The selection of the most appropriate medication is based on a personalised medical assessment, taking into account the patient’s overall health, previous medical conditions, current treatments, and preferences. It is essential to consult a doctor before starting any treatment for erectile dysfunction and to follow their instructions to ensure the best therapeutic option.

At the moment, we do not recommend...

There are potential treatments for erectile dysfunction that are still in the research phase and have not yet been fully proven to be effective or safe. These include:

Stem cell injections

Its ability to regenerate tissue and improve erectile function by stimulating the repair of blood vessels and nerves in the penis is being investigated. However, studies are in the early stages and further testing is needed. In addition, it is very expensive.

Plasma rico en plaquetas (PRP)

This treatment involves injecting platelet concentrate derived from the patient’s own blood into the tissues of the penis to promote healing and cell regeneration. Although some preliminary studies show promising results, there is no conclusive evidence of its effectiveness. In addition, an increase in complications resulting from its use, such as the appearance of curvatures in the penis, has been demonstrated.

Intracavernous botulinum toxin

It is used to relax the muscles of the penis and improve blood flow, but results vary and more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and, crucially, its long-term safety. If undergoing this treatment, you should seek proper medical advice and always do so within a clinical trial.

These treatments are not yet approved first-line options and are considered experimental.

Would you like to find an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction?

At Andrology Valencia, our urologists will advise you on oral medications and personalised options tailored to your needs.