For those looking for a cheaper and more accessible option to Viagra, wonder no longer as one of the biggest pharmacy chains in America has what you need. Loestrin (or the generic equivalent) is a low-cost and reliable alternative for those seeking to enhance their sex lives. Available over the counter, this option gives you more freedom to engage in sexual activity when you want without the commitment of a daily prescription.
How Does It Work?
Like Viagra, Loestrin helps combat sexual dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the genitals. But while Viagra is a popular pharmaceutical option, approved by the FDA for treatment of erectile dysfunction, Loestrin is an over-the-counter (OTC) oral contraceptive (brand name: Nuvaring) approved for pre-marketing to prevent pregnancy. Studies have shown that it is as effective as other leading brands — but with more convenient options for users, it has become extremely popular.
OTC medications have been around for years, yet it wasn’t until the early 2000s that they started gaining popularity. Between 2001 and 2010, OTC medication purchases increased by 17%, according to the American Pharmacists Association.
It’s Popular Because It’s Attractive To Women
An astounding 60% of all those who purchased Loestrin in the last year were women. While it’s important to note that this is largely due to its effective ovulation prevention capabilities, it’s also important to remember that many women prefer to avoid the commitment of an oral contraceptive by taking a more natural approach.
It’s well-known that women are more receptive to alternative forms of birth control, and several studies have found that alternative methods of birth control, including OTC options, are highly effective at preventing pregnancy. One study even found that all forms of birth control, including OTC medication, are more effective at preventing pregnancy than typical IUDs (intra-uterine devices).
More Flexibility
Thanks to its OTC status, you don’t have to worry about risking an erection or experiencing other side effects if you take it the wrong way. This gives users more flexibility, as you can take it anytime within a 24-hour period, and there are no restrictions on how much you can take. (Loestrin is usually taken as a half tablet when used for contraception or pre-coitally as a prevention measure against pregnancy. It is also available in a gel form for transgender users.)
OTC medications are a great option for people seeking to avoid the side effects of more invasive procedures or who want more flexibility in when they can take medications. Additionally, since they don’t require a prescription, they are more accessible to people seeking them.
Side Effects Are Minimal
While some people, especially older adults, may experience side effects from OTC medications, these are generally minimal and comparable to the side effects of other medications. The side effects of Loestrin include breast discomfort for some women, irregular menstrual cycles for those with a history of this issue, and allergic reactions, particularly in those with a history of these issues.
These are all relatively minor side effects compared to the benefits of Loestrin for those seeking to enhance their sex lives. If you’re seeking a quick fix for erectile dysfunction or want to combat anxiety during sex, you could try a different OTC medication option.
It’s Affordable
One of the major benefits of OTC medications is that they are much cheaper than their prescription counterparts. Taking into consideration the cost of a single dose (usually between $20 and $50), the cost per month ranges from $5 to $20, depending on the plan. This makes them a viable option for people seeking to save money.
Although the price is a point of consideration, it’s not the only one. As mentioned earlier, it’s a common misconception that OTC medication is only affordable because it’s cheaper. While the initial cost may be cheaper, the long-term cost can be higher due to the out-of-pocket spending associated with prescriptions. Between 2006 and 2011, prescription drug spending increased by 64.9%, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
More Freedom
When you have a prescription, you’re generally required to take the medications as prescribed. This can pose a problem if you have to miss a dose or are unable to continue due to adverse side effects. If you slip up and take more than prescribed, you could encounter problems, as this could change the effectiveness of the medication.
This is why OTC medications offer such a valuable service to people seeking to manage their health and well-being. The convenience of being able to pop a pill whenever you want without worrying about the side effects is undeniably appealing. It also gives you more freedom to manage your health as you see fit.
Many people are under the misconception that OTC medications are less effective than their prescription counterparts. This couldn’t be further from the truth as several studies have shown that OTC medications are as effective as other leading brands — and in some cases, even more effective. While pharmaceutical companies continue to develop new and innovative medications to meet the demands of a growing market, those looking for an alternative option should consider OTC medication.