Erectile dysfunction medication: what works, how to use it, and safety tips

If you’re reading this, you probably want a quick, no‑fluff rundown on the meds that help men get back to a normal sex life. The good news is there are several FDA‑approved pills that actually work, and the bad news is you need to know the right dose, timing, and possible side effects before you pop a pill.

Top prescription choices

Four drugs dominate the market: sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra) and avanafil (Stendra). They all belong to the same class called PDE‑5 inhibitors, which relax blood vessels in the penis and let blood flow in when you’re aroused.

Sildenafil is the oldest and cheapest. It peaks in 60‑90 minutes and lasts about four hours. Take it on an empty stomach for best results.

Tadalafil lives longer—up to 36 hours—so you can call it the “weekend pill.” It’s also approved for daily low‑dose use, which can give you more spontaneity.

Vardenafil works a bit faster than sildenafil, hitting peak levels in about an hour. It’s a solid middle‑ground if you want a shorter window than Cialis but don’t mind a modest price jump from Viagra.

Avanafil hits the fastest, sometimes in 15 minutes. It’s pricier, but the quick onset can be handy if you’re on a tight schedule.

How to dose safely

Start low. Most doctors begin with the smallest tablet that’s approved for your health profile—usually 25 mg of sildenafil or 5 mg of tadalafil. If you don’t get the desired result after a few tries, your doctor may increase the dose. Never double up to make up for a missed night; the drugs stay in your system for hours, and higher levels increase the risk of headaches, flushing, or dizziness.

Timing matters. Take the pill about an hour before intimacy, unless you’re on tadalafil’s daily low‑dose version, where you can take it any time. Avoid heavy meals, especially high‑fat foods, because they can slow absorption and make the pill feel less effective.

Watch for interactions. Nitrates (often prescribed for chest pain) can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure when combined with any PDE‑5 inhibitor. Also, some antibiotics, antifungals, and HIV meds can raise drug levels, so always share your full medication list with your prescriber.

Most side effects are mild: a warm flush, a mild headache, or an upset stomach. If you notice a painful or prolonged erection lasting more than four hours, seek medical help right away—this condition is called priapism and can damage tissue.

Buying pills online? Stick to reputable pharmacies that require a prescription. Look for verification seals, clear contact info, and a pharmacist you can talk to. Cheap “online” offers often hide counterfeit meds that may contain harmful ingredients.

Bottom line: erectile dysfunction medication works for the majority of men when used correctly. Talk to your doctor, start with the lowest dose, respect timing, and stay clear of risky drug combos. With the right approach, you’ll get reliable results without unnecessary side effects.