Did you know that there are numerous FDA-approved medications for ED on the market today that are generally safe for use? Most people find these medications effective if a doctor’s prescription is involved. And the good thing is that any of them are available at a local pharmacy.
But here is the thing. If a patient is on a nitrates prescription for an underlying heart condition, it would be best to avoid Erectile Dysfunction pills. And this brings us to the next section: the side effects of the medications for Erectile Dysfunction.
Side Effects of These Medications
So, are there side effects related to taking oral medication for ED? Like any other medication, side effects can vary from person to person. It is essential to note that each ED pill’s active ingredients are different, with the potential of interacting with nitrates (as mentioned above) or other medications.
With that said, the common side effects of ED pills include the following;
- Nasal congestion
- Flushing
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Upset stomach
- Rash
- Diarrhea
- Vision-related problems
However, all Erectile Dysfunction oral medications are considered in the category of PDE5 inhibitors.
What are PDE5 Inhibitors?
PDE5 stands for phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors. All ED pills are typically PDE5 inhibitors. But how do PDE5 inhibitors work? Taking PDE5 inhibitors helps a patient relax the smooth muscle in the blood vessels’ walls, thus achieving an erection. The idea is to fill the penis with blood through this dilation.
Below are the main types of Erectile Dysfunction pills.
Main types of ED Pills
- Sildenafil
Viagra is the brand name for Sildenafil and is often the first go-to prescription for many doctors. But why do most health specialists often consider Sildenafil the first-line treatment for Erectile Dysfunction? The medication has existed for a significantly more extended period than other ED pills. In addition, most doctors are well conversant with Viagra’s interactions and side effects.
A Viagra dose of 50mg is standard, and the patient is expected to take it approximately one hour before engaging in sexual activity.
- Tadalafil
Tadalafil or Cialis is somehow different from Sildenafil and other ED medications because it stays in the patient’s body relatively longer since it breaks down slowly. Additionally, Tadalafil can treat the symptoms of Erectile Dysfunction and an enlarged prostate simultaneously. Initially, a specialist should prescribe a 10mg dose for Cialis, which can go as low as 5mg or as high as 20mg, depending on several factors.
Conclusion
From the above article, it is clear that Erectile Dysfunction pills are safe. Their side effects are often mild, ranging from dizziness, diarrhea, headaches, etc. The medications effectively help an individual achieve an erection. But the recommendation is always to involve a qualified doctor.