Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the persistent inability to get and maintain an erection that is sufficient to have satisfactory sexual intercourse. ED not only affects you and your quality of life, but it also affects your partner.
At Advanced Urological Care in New York, N.Y., Dr. J. Francois Eid is an expert in treating and eliminating erectile dysfunction using both nonsurgical treatment options and surgical treatment. Successful ED treatment has been shown to improve couples’ intimacy, sexual satisfaction, men’s self-esteem, and overall quality of life. In some men, it can also relieve symptoms of depression.
Risk factors for erectile dysfunction
The most common risk factors that lead to the development of erectile dysfunction are:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Injuries
- Nerve diseases
- Operations in the pelvis
- Medication side effects
- Nicotine
- Alcohol abuse
- Increased fat levels in the blood
- Lack of physical activity
Mental and personal problems also play a significant role in developing ED. Those include partnership problems, depression, and stress.
Certain lifestyle changes can effectively eliminate ED. If you improve your eating habits, increase your physical activity, quit smoking, or reduce your alcohol consumption, you may solve the problem.
However, if the problem persists you may consider alternative treatment options.
ED Medication
Below are four prescription medications approved for treating this issue.
Viagra® (Sildenafil)
Viagra became available in 1998. It was the first so-called PDE-5 inhibitor on the market. VIagra takes effect 30-60 minutes after ingestion. Viagra is administered in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg doses, and doctors recommend beginning with the 50 mg dose. The clinical effectiveness can last up to 12 hours. It can be rendered less effective if you eat a meal rich in fat before taking it.
Cialis® (Tadalafil)
Cialis launched in 2003. The drug takes effect 30 minutes after ingestion and can last up to 36 hours. Cialis is administered in 10 mg and 20 mg doses. Doctors recommend taking 10 mg at the start of therapy. Cialis can be taken without eating.
Levitra® (Vardenafil)
Levitra also became available in 2003. Levitra’s onset begins 30 minutes after taking it and is effective for 8-12 hours. It is administered in 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg doses. The recommended starting dose is 10 mg, and, as with Viagra, high-fat meals weaken the effects of Levitra.
Stendra® (Avanafil)
Stendra is an alternative oral therapy that the FDA approved in 2012. Taken 15 minutes prior to sexual activity, Stendra comes in 100 mg or 200 mg doses. It only works when you are sexually stimulated and can be taken with or without food. Stendra has a low rate of side effects and can even be taken after moderate consumption of alcohol.
Penile injection therapy
Penile injection therapy is another nonsurgical treatment option for ED. There are two medications, Caverject® or Edex® (Alprostadil), that are injected directly into the side of your penis to produce a safe and predictable erection. The erection will last 30 minutes to one hour or up to orgasm. Dr. Eid works closely with you to help you become comfortable with the injection technique so that you can safely do it at home.
Urethral medications
The urethral medication alprostadil is absorbed through the urethral tube in the penis, which is where the urine and semen flow. This medication is then distributed to the surrounding tissue, encouraging blood flow just before intercourse. This option is most effective in radical prostatectomy ED patients.
Vacuum Pumps
Another nonsurgical treatment option for ED is a vacuum pump, which is a plastic cylinder that you put over your penis. The pumping action creates a vacuum which then causes blood to flow into the penis resulting in an erection. Every vacuum pump comes with instructions for use or an instructional video.
Experimental treatments
Many men’s health clinics offer experimental treatments to restore normal erections:
- Low intensity shockwave treatment
- Platelet-rich plasma injections
- Stem cell transplants
Unfortunately, no data is currently available documenting recovery or even improvement of erections after these treatments. Until high quality data is available these treatments are still considered experimental and patients are not charged for them.
Schedule your consultation to learn more
Call Dr. Eid today at 212-535-6690, or schedule a virtual visit to talk more about these treatments and the best option for you.