WHAT IS ED?
"Erectile dysfunction" (ED), often referred to as impotence, is a medical condition that o
ccurs when a man consistently has difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. It's important to note that occasional difficulty with erections is common and not necessarily indicative of ED. However, when the problem becomes chronic and ongoing, it may be classified as erectile dysfunction.
It is estimated that about 40% of men at the age of 40 experience some degree of ED. The prevalence of ED increases with age, and by the age of 70, it is estimated that approximately 70% of men may experience ED to some extent. Across all age groups, it is estimated that approximately 5% to 20% of men experience ED at some point in their lives. That's over 10 million people!
There are various potential causes of ED, and it can affect men of all ages. Some common causes and risk factors for erectile dysfunction include:
- Physical Factors: Underlying medical conditions can contribute to ED. These may include cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and hormonal imbalances.
- Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues can all lead to ED. Psychological factors can often be intertwined with physical causes.
- Lifestyle Factors: Unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and drug use, can contribute to ED. A sedentary lifestyle and poor diet can also play a role.
- Medications: Certain medications, including some antidepressants, antihypertensives, and drugs that affect hormone levels, may have side effects that lead to ED.
- Neurological Conditions: Conditions that affect the nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injuries, can interfere with the signals that control erections.
- Injury or Trauma: Physical injury to the pelvic area, such as damage to the nerves or blood vessels, can result in ED.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Abnormal levels of hormones, particularly testosterone, can contribute to ED.
HOW TO TREAT ED?
Several medications are available to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). These medications work by increasing blood flow to the penis, facilitating erections, and helping men achieve and maintain an erection for sexual activity.
Sildenafil (Viagra): Sildenafil is one of the most well-known and widely used medications for ED. It is usually taken about 30 minutes to one hour before sexual activity. The effects can last for up to four hours.
Tadalafil (Cialis): Tadalafil is another popular ED medication known for its long-lasting effects. It can be taken up to 36 hours before sexual activity, allowing for more spontaneity. There is also a lower-dose version of tadalafil for daily use.
Vardenafil (Levitra, Staxyn): Vardenafil is like sildenafil and is used to treat ED. It should be taken about 30 minutes before sexual activity.
Tadalafil (Adcirca): While not specifically indicated for ED, tadalafil is also available under the brand name Adcirca and is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs). Some healthcare providers may prescribe it off-label for ED.
Combination Medications: Some medications combine two or more active ingredients to address ED and other sexual health issues. For example, sildenafil and tadalafil may be combined with other substances to create combination medications.
WHAT CAN WE DO?
Our compounded ED lozenges (gummies) allow for faster absorption through the buccal cavity, rather than oral tablets which can be damaged or degrade in the gastrointestinal tract and liver by first-pass metabolism.
Compounded ED medications may include the following:
Customized Dosage: Compounding pharmacists can adjust the dosage of the active ingredient to meet the patient's specific requirements. This can be particularly useful for individuals who need a dosage that is different from the standard options available for commercial ED medications.
- Lozenges
- Orally-Disintegrating-Tablets
- Suspension
- Mucosal Adhesive Film
- Capsules
Alternative Delivery Methods: In addition to the common oral form (pills or tablets), compounded ED medications can be prepared in alternative forms such as topical creams, gels, sublingual tablets, or even transdermal patches. These different delivery methods may be more suitable for patients with preferences or specific medical conditions.
Combination Medications: Compounded ED medications can combine multiple active ingredients to address both ED and other sexual health issues, such as premature ejaculation. These combination medications can provide a more comprehensive solution for some patients.
Personalized Formulas: Compounding pharmacies can formulate ED medications using specific ingredients to minimize potential side effects or interactions with other medications the patient may be taking.
Treatment for erectile dysfunction may involve addressing the underlying cause. This can include making lifestyle changes, managing medical conditions, and addressing psychological factors through therapy. In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend medications like Viagra (sildenafil), Cialis (tadalafil), or Levitra (vardenafil) that can help improve blood flow and facilitate erections.
Speak to our Pharmacist to see if compounded ED treatment is right for you!
Phone: (603) 472-3919