Impotence in men, also known as erectile dysfunction, refers to a medical condition in which men are unable to keep an erection for sexual intercourse. The Mayo Clinic states that some risk factors for developing impotence include suffering with stress, heart problems, depression or anxiety. Fortunately, drugs for impotence in men exist.
Sildenafil
Sildenafil, commonly sold as Viagra, is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase inhibitors. Drugs.com states that sildenafil relaxes penile muscles and allows more blood to flow through the penis. This results in a prolonged erection. Sildenafil’s less concerning side effects include memory problems, back pain, a stuffy nose, a headache and stomach problems. Some of this medication’s serious effects include shortness of breath, sudden loss of vision, ringing in the ears, an irregular heartbeat and chest pain. Phone a doctor when sildenafil leads to these effects. Avoid taking sildenafil when suffering from heart problems or taking nitrate medications. This can lead to very low blood pressure. Sildenafil is a pill typically taken as needed 30 minutes to 1 hour prior to sexual activity.
Tadalafil
Tadalafil, commonly sold as Cialis, is also a phosphodiesterase inhibitor that allows more blood to flow through the penis because it relaxes penile muscles. According to Drugs.com, some of tadalafil’s less concerning side effects include memory problems, stomach problems, a stuffy nose and a sore throat. Some of its more serious side effects include seizures, convulsions, ringing in the ears, chest pain and fainting. Call a doctor when tadalafil leads to these effects. Suffering from such diseases as chest pain, high or low blood pressure, heart disease or stomach ulcers may require a decrease in tadalafil’s dose. This medication is also a pill taken 30 minutes to an hour prior to sexual intercourse.
Vardenafil
Vardenafil, commonly sold as Levitra, is another phosphodiesterase inhibitor that treats impotence in men. According to MedlinePlus, vardenafil increases the amount of blood that flows through the penis. Some of its less concerning side effects include a headache, heartburn, a stuffy or runny nose and flushing. Vardenafil’s serious side effects include hives, fainting, a rash and blurry vision. Notify a doctor when vardenafil leads to these effects. This medication is a tablet taken 60 minutes prior to sexual intercourse.
About this Author
Lisabetta Divita is a physician whose love for writing flourished while she was exposed to all facets of the medical field during her training. Her writings are currently featured in prominent medical magazines and various online publications. She holds a doctorate in medicine, a master’s in biomedicine, and a Bachelor of Science in biology from Boston College.
