What Is the First Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction?

A clinician checks whether medicines, diabetes, blood-vessel problems, hormone changes, stress or relationship factors may be contributing. This helps select a safe starting option rather than treating the erection problem in isolation.

PDE5 inhibitors are prescription medicines that support the natural erection response when sexual stimulation is present. They do not create sexual desire, and they may not be suitable with nitrate medicines used for chest pain or with some other conditions. A doctor or pharmacist should review your current medicines before you use one.

The assessment may include questions about erections, desire, ejaculation, general health and emotional wellbeing. A blood test can help look for contributors such as diabetes or hormone problems when your history or examination suggests it.

Arrange a GP consultation if erection difficulties are recurring, distressing or affecting intimacy. Bring a list of medicines, supplements and health conditions, and mention whether the change was sudden or gradual.

Regular movement, stopping smoking, moderating alcohol, improving sleep and managing conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes can support treatment. Do not buy unlabelled sexual-performance medicines online; their ingredients and dose may be unreliable.

Seek prompt medical advice if erectile dysfunction starts suddenly with chest discomfort, breathlessness, fainting, severe pain or neurological symptoms. Contact a clinician soon if you have penile curvature, an injury, a new lump, blood in urine or semen, or markedly reduced sexual desire.

An erection lasting several hours, especially when painful, needs emergency care because it can damage penile tissue. If a prescribed medicine causes sudden vision or hearing changes, stop and seek urgent medical advice.

Ask which cause is most relevant in your situation, whether your medicines could contribute, whether a PDE5 inhibitor is safe for you, and what to do if the first option does not help. You can also ask whether diabetes screening or other blood tests are appropriate.