ED meds are medications used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), a condition where a person cannot achieve a firm erection or loses their erection before or during sexual activity. ED meds work by enhancing the effects of a chemical the body makes that relaxes muscles in the penis, called nitric oxide. This boosts blood flow and helps a person get an erection from sexual activity. The four main ED meds taken by mouth are called PDE5 inhibitors, which include:

• Sildenafil (Viagra)
• Tadalafil (Cialis)
• Vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn)
• Avanafil (Stendra)

Each oral medicine for ED has a slightly different chemical makeup, which affects the way each medication works, such as how quickly it takes effect and wears off, and the possible side effects. A doctor or other healthcare professional can recommend one based on these factors, other health conditions a person has, and any other medicines they take.

ED meds usually work well and cause few side effects. Common side effects include headache, facial flushing, and upset stomach. Rarely, more serious side effects can happen, including sudden vision loss or hearing loss, and an erection that lasts longer than four hours.

Its important to note that ED meds are available via prescription only, so a person must first speak with a doctor or healthcare professional to discuss symptoms. Some companies offer telehealth consultations. The healthcare professional will then decide whether ED medication is appropriate. ED meds might not work or might be dangerous if a person also takes certain medications, such as nitrates, or has certain health conditions, such as severe heart or liver problems.