Last year, Canada became the first country in the world to legalize online pharmacy sales, and the effect has been spectacular. Before Canadian online pharmacies arrived on the scene, Canadian men were unable to get their hands on the ED drug they needed due to an inability to get a prescription filled at a nearby pharmacy. That problem doesn’t exist any more, as online pharmacies in Canada have made it possible to find the medication you need, when you need it.
Although Canadian pharmacies are required to follow Good Pharma Practices, which ensure safe and legal drug distribution, not all products sold through this channel are created equal. Some may contain harmful substances and should be avoided by men who want to stay healthy.
The Real Danger In These Medications
Even before Canadian pharmacies became available, U.S.A.P.A.-registered pharmacists filled a crucial role in ensuring that men who want to buy ED medication get what they need. They worked with physicians to monitor the use of those medications and educate men on the risk of taking them. But in some cases, pharmacists weren’t able to prevent patients from using medications that could become dangerously addictive or even cause death.
In a recent study appearing in the British Medical Journal Open, researchers from the University of Toronto reviewed the medical records of 44 men who took part in an in-house study of ED medication. The men were recruited from the Toronto and Hamilton areas between 2002 and 2010, and were asked to self-report on any side effects and concerns about their sex life. Overall, the research team found that 19% of the men had an improvement in their overall sexual function, while 16% reported experiencing adverse effects.
The researchers noted several concerning trends, including:
- The men who participated in the study were between the ages of 40 and 70, which means that they’ve been sexually active for a substantial portion of their lives.
- Many of the men in the study were taking multiple medications for other health concerns, which likely contributed to the adverse effects they experienced.
- Only 35% of the participants were using the medications for ED alone, while 65% were in some way trying to improve their sex lives (either by trying a new medication or method or using supplements).
- 22% of the men in the study had previously tried an ED medication, while 83% had used a pharmaceutical product to increase their libido.
- Trouble sleeping was one of the most commonly reported adverse effects—it was seen in 15% of the men.
- The study revealed some concerning practices among the drug companies that make these medications. For example, the majority of the men in the study were taking the medications as part of a clinical trial, and many were required to attend regular medical evaluations. Yet, none of the men participated in any type of behavioral intervention to help them stop taking the medications or try a different method of dealing with their ED.
Tips For Safer Sex
While many men experience major improvements with the use of an ED medication, it’s still not risk-free. For those who do choose to use ED medication, the responsibility falls on the individual to be safe and careful. There are several things that men who want to stay in control of their sexual health should do:
- Look into the side effects of the medication you are considering using.
- Read reputable third-party reviews about the medications you are considering trying.
- Talk to your doctor about how these medications affect you personally.
- Be sure to follow any directions your doctor gives you about taking the medication.
- If you are taking a medication for ED, don’t give it to anyone else. It’s a common mistake for people to share medications, especially when they’re for pain or heart disease. Sharing medications is dangerous because the effects are usually different for each person. Too much medication can seriously damage your health.
- Be honest with your doctor about any side effects you are experiencing. Although rare, some patients have had severe reactions to these medications.
If you’re concerned about the risks associated with ED medications, then there are safer alternative treatments available. In some cases, a simple behavior change (such as trying new positions or methods) can lead to an improvement in your sex life. In other cases, supplements (such as ginseng) can help to increase your libido and stamina.
ED Medications Are Still Required
In some cases, an ED medication is the only thing that can give a man the sexual gratification he needs. For instance, if you’re having trouble keeping an erection due to a medical condition (such as diabetes or heart disease), then an ED medication might be the only treatment option available. In these cases, it’s still best to discuss your options with your physician.
ED medications are also required for men who want to become parents. A man’s ability to maintain an erection can be affected by certain prescription medications and supplements. If you’re taking a medication or trying a new supplement to improve your sex life and you plan to become a parent one day, then it’s important to discuss your options with your doctor.
With the proper education and guidance, ED medications are not as dangerous as they seem. By being mindful of the risks and side effects, men can use these medications to successfully treat their erection problems and continue their sex lives without limitation.
Summary
Overall, Canada has made huge strides in making medications more accessible to those who need them. While there are still some concerning trends to be aware of (such as the dangers of combining medications), the overall effect has been beneficial. For those who are looking for a safe and reliable treatment option that can improve their sex lives, then Canadian pharmacies are a great place to start.