There’s no debating that erectile dysfunction is on the rise. According to the American Urological Association (AUA), more than 150 million American men suffer from the condition and it’s one of the most common disorders seen in medical practice. What was once considered a “manly” thing – the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for intercourse – has become a common occurrence, particularly among younger men. Between 2012 and 2016, the incidence of erectile dysfunction among those aged 40-59 increased by 17%, while the number of men 65-79 diagnosed with the condition rose by 23%. Clearly, something is affecting the ability to achieve and keep an erection. But what is it and is there a specific over-the-counter (OTC) treatment available to counter it? Let’s discuss.
Causes Of Erectile Dysfunction
It’s commonly accepted that erectile dysfunction has many causes and while there are some lifestyle factors that can trigger the condition (for example, heavy drinking, medication use, or chronic stress), it can also be a sign of a more complex medical condition.
The most frequent cause of erectile dysfunction is related to medical conditions. According to the American Urological Association (AUA), about 65% of men with erectile dysfunction have some type of medical problem that is preventing or affecting the ability to achieve an erection. The most common underlying condition is heart disease (especially heart valve disease), followed by diabetes and high cholesterol. Other conditions associated with erectile dysfunction include liver disease, neurological disorders, and kidney disease. This is also common among men who take certain medications, particularly those prescribed to treat high blood pressure or cardiovascular diseases.
As you can see, there are a variety of potential causes for erectile dysfunction, making it a bit more complex than just “lack of confidence” or “stress”. That being said, there are things you can do to improve the condition, like exercise and eat a healthy diet. And if you are already taking medications for other conditions, be sure to consult with your doctor about possible interactions between the two.
Is There An OTC Treatment?
Thankfully, there is an easy solution to treat erectile dysfunction: an OTC drug known as sildenafil citrate (better known by the commercial name Viagra). Actually, this is one of the most popular and effective treatments for erectile dysfunction. Trials have shown that one dose of Viagra, taken about 30 minutes prior to sexual activity, can substantially increase the odds of an intercourse event, often resulting in complete satisfaction for both partners. It really is a “win-win” scenario. More importantly, the side effects of Viagra are minimal, usually consisting of mild discomfort at the site of injection (which can be avoided by administering the drug sublingually) and some color change of the skin, particularly in people of Jewish descent (as it contains vitamin C in it).
If you’re interested in trying Viagra for erectile dysfunction, it’s important to consult with your doctor beforehand to ensure you’re at the right dosage for your personal needs. Some men may require a higher dosage than others (and your doctor can help you determine the right amount for your unique body). Also, not all doctors will prescribe Viagra for the same reason; some may prefer to prescribe it for hypertension or heart disease while others may limit the condition to patients with persistent erections (which is a term used to describe occasional or spontaneous erections occurring without sexual stimulation or desire).
Is It Right for You?
Based on the reasons listed above, Viagra is undoubtedly the best choice for individuals with erectile dysfunction. The fact that it’s an OTC drug and doesn’t require a prescription makes it much more convenient and accessible to patients. It’s also important to note that while the drug can treat erectile dysfunction, it does not appear to improve orgasmic ability in those with an already adequate sexual response — in other words, it won’t help you “perform” better in bed (even though that’s often a side effect desired by some patients).
For those who meet the medical criteria for erectile dysfunction, Viagra is a simple and effective solution that allows them to quickly regain their lost confidence. And for the 65% of men with medical conditions that are causing or contributing to their erectile dysfunction, it’s a safe and effective treatment option. With almost 20 years of clinical experience, we’re confident that Viagra will provide reliable and satisfactory results for most men.