ED Treatment Options: What Actually Works

About 30 million men in the U.S. deal with erectile dysfunction. That number sounds big because ED is common, and it has many causes. If you want straightforward options without medical jargon, this page lays out what works, what to watch for, and how to pick the next step with your doctor.

Medical treatments you should know

PDE5 inhibitors are the most-used drugs for ED. That includes sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil. They help blood flow into the penis and usually work within 30–60 minutes. Tadalafil lasts longer, so some men prefer it for spontaneity. Side effects are usually mild—headache, flushing, or stuffy nose—but never mix these drugs with nitrates used for chest pain. That combo can dangerously lower blood pressure.

If pills don’t help, injections or urethral pellets are options. Alprostadil injections are effective for many men and can create an erection in 10–15 minutes. Intraurethral pellets are less invasive but work for fewer people. Both need training from a clinician about dosing and technique.

For long-term or severe ED, penile implants are a surgical choice. Modern implants can be inflatable or semi-rigid. Surgery has risks, but satisfaction rates are high for men who want a permanent solution. Discuss infection risk, device lifespan, and recovery with your surgeon.

Non-drug fixes and lifestyle changes

Sometimes simple changes make a big difference. Improve sleep, quit smoking, cut excess alcohol, and aim for regular exercise—these moves help blood flow and hormone balance. Losing weight often improves erections in men with metabolic issues or diabetes. Check testosterone if you have low libido, fatigue, or small testes; hormone therapy helps some men, but it’s not a universal fix.

Vacuum erection devices are drug-free tools that create an erection with a pump and a band. They work reliably for many men and have few side effects, though the look and feel aren’t everyone’s favorite. Counseling or sex therapy helps when stress, anxiety, or relationship issues cause ED. Psychological causes respond well to short-term therapy or couples’ counseling.

Be cautious with supplements. Many over-the-counter products claim to treat ED but lack reliable testing and can have hidden ingredients. Always check with your clinician before trying a supplement, especially if you take other medications.

When to see a doctor? If ED appears suddenly, follows chest pain, or comes with other worrying symptoms, get urgent care. Otherwise, book a primary care or urology visit to review medications, screen for diabetes or vascular disease, and make a treatment plan. ED is a symptom, not a shameful secret—treating it often improves overall health and quality of life.