Erectile Dysfunction Drugs & ED Therapies
If testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) treatment for low T does not solve a patient’s ED, our medical providers at Low T Center may recommend one of a few prescription erectile dysfunction drugs, such as tadalafil (the generic equivalent of the brand name CialisTM) or sildenafil (the generic equivalent of the brand name ViagraTM). Tadalafil and sildenafil are oral medications that are in a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Basically, they inhibit an enzyme (the PDE5 enzyme) from destroying the body’s ability to allow the penis to fill with blood and persist.
There are some differences between tadalafil and sildenafil. Tadalafil remains in your system for up to 18 hours, so it can be taken daily without worry for timing of sexual activity. Sildenafil will remain in your system for only 4-6 hours, so timing of sexual activity must be considered. Some studies indicate that tadalafil also may help alleviate an enlarged prostate.
Side effects of tadalafil:
The most common side effects of tadalafil are:
- Facial flushing (reddening)
- Headaches
- Stomach upset
- Diarrhea
- Flu-like symptoms
- Nausea
- Low blood pressure
- Blurred vision
- Changes in color vision (inability to distinguish between blue and green)
- Abnormal ejaculation
- Priapism, or an erection that lasts more than four hours that can damage the penis
Side effects of sildenafil:
The most common side effects of sildenafil:
- Facial flushing (reddening)
- Headaches
- Stomach upset
- Diarrhea
- Nasal congestion
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Inability to differentiate between the colors green and blue
- Rash
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Priapism, or an erection that lasts more than four hours that can damage the penis
Your Low T Center provider will discuss each medication, and their potential uses and side-effects with you in detail during your visit.
You can learn more about these drugs at www.fda.gov/drugs
Side effects may include:
- Mild to moderate pain during injection
- A small amount of bleeding at the injection site
- Painful sensation with an erection
Call your healthcare provider if you notice any redness, lumps, swelling, tenderness, or curvature of the erect penis.
If you’re a candidate for ED drugs, your Low T Center will discuss medication options, their uses, and side effects in detail during your appointment.
ED Treatment at Low T Center
Our team is here to help you address your whole health. If you have symptoms of erectile dysfunction, schedule a comprehensive health assessment today to discuss your symptoms and treatment options. Our medical providers work with you to help find treatment solutions tailored to your lifestyle and health goals.