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Erectile dysfunction treatment

There is different type of treatment used by men for dysfunction depending on numerous aspects such as medical background etc. For some, making a few changes in lifestyle such as quitting smoking and increasing physical activity may solve the problem while for some other measures might be required. Cutting back on any drugs should be another factor to be considered. Psychotherapy and behavior modifications in selected patients are considered next if indicated, followed by oral or locally injected drugs, vacuum devices, and surgically implanted devices. In rare cases, surgery involving veins or arteries may be considered.

Psychotherapy

Experts often treat psychologically based ED using techniques that decrease the anxiety associated with intercourse. Such techniques also can help relieve anxiety when ED from physical causes is being treated.

Drug Therapy

Drugs for treating ED can be taken orally, injected directly into the penis, or inserted into the urethra at the tip of the penis. Additional oral medicines are being tested for safety and effectiveness.

Drugs such as Viagra, Levitra and some others are taken an hour before sexual activity. These drugs work by relaxing the smooth muscles of the penis and increasing the blood flow.

While oral medicines improve the response to sexual stimulation, they do not trigger an automatic erection as injections do. None of these PDE inhibitors should be used more than once a day. Men who take nitrate-based drugs such as nitroglycerin for heart problems should not use either drug.

Many men achieve stronger erections by injecting drugs into the penis, causing it to become engorged with blood. These drugs may create unwanted side effects, however, including persistent erection and scarring.

A system for inserting a pellet of alprostadil into the urethra is marketed as Muse. The system uses a prefilled applicator to deliver the pellet about an inch deep into the urethra. The most common side effects are aching in the penis, testicles, and area between the penis and rectum.

Vacuum Devices

Mechanical vacuum devices cause erection by creating a partial vacuum, which draws blood into the penis, engorging and expanding it.

Surgery

Surgery usually has one of three goals:

Implanted devices, known as prostheses, can restore erection in many men with ED. Possible problems with implants include mechanical breakdown and infection, although mechanical problems have diminished in recent years because of technological advances.