ED Treatment FAQ

Erectile dysfunction is the persistent difficulty getting or keeping an erection firm enough for sex. It is common, especially with age, and can be linked to physical factors (such as heart health, diabetes or medication side effects) or psychological factors (such as stress or anxiety).

Yes. In the United States, ED medications such as sildenafil and tadalafil require a prescription. Every provider listed on this site requires an evaluation by a licensed healthcare professional, who decides whether treatment is appropriate for you.

You complete a medical questionnaire online, which is reviewed by a licensed provider. If treatment is suitable, a prescription is issued and filled by a licensed pharmacy, then shipped discreetly to your address.

Reputable providers use licensed clinicians and US-licensed pharmacies. Avoid any website that sells prescription ED medicine without a medical consultation. We only list services that require a provider evaluation.

No. ED medications are not suitable for people taking nitrates, certain blood-pressure medications, or with some heart conditions. Always disclose your full medical history and current medications to the prescribing provider.

Most take effect in 30 to 60 minutes. Avanafil can work in about 15 to 30 minutes, while tadalafil may take up to 2 hours but can last up to 36 hours. Sexual stimulation is still needed for any of them to work.

FDA-approved generics contain the same active ingredient in the same strength as the brand-name version and must meet the same quality standards. They usually cost much less.

No FDA-approved oral ED medication is available over the counter in the US. Supplements sold as "natural Viagra" are not regulated like medicines, and the FDA has found many contain hidden prescription drugs.

Coverage varies. Many online providers work on a cash-pay basis, and some insurers limit ED medication coverage. Check with your insurer and the provider before you start.

Yes. ED can be an early sign of heart disease, diabetes or high blood pressure because they affect blood flow. It is worth getting a general health check, especially if ED came on gradually.

No. Erectile Health Review is an independent comparison and information website. We do not sell, prescribe or dispense medication, and nothing on this site is medical advice. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional.

We may receive compensation when you click links to some providers. This can influence which providers appear and in what order, but it does not affect our editorial descriptions. See our Advertising Disclosure for details.

We do not ask you for health information. Any medical details you share go directly to the provider you choose and are handled under their own privacy policy and applicable laws such as HIPAA.