Best Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Medications
Remote Pharmacy Research Team
May 20, 2025
Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects millions of men and can impact confidence, relationships, and overall quality of life. The good news is that there are proven medications that help improve blood flow and restore sexual function safely and effectively.
This guide explains the most trusted ED medications available today. You’ll learn how each one works, who they’re for, how fast they take effect, and what to consider when choosing the right treatment. Whether you’re exploring options for the first time or looking to improve current results, this overview offers clear answers and medical insights to support your decision.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the consistent inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual activity. It can happen occasionally, but when it becomes frequent or ongoing, it may affect self-esteem, relationships, and overall well-being.
ED happens when there isn’t enough blood flow to the penis, or when the nerves and muscles involved in the erection process don’t work properly. Hormonal imbalances, certain medications, stress, anxiety, or chronic health conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure can all contribute.
Although ED becomes more common with age, it’s not a normal or unavoidable part of getting older. With the right treatment and support, most men can regain sexual function and confidence. Medication is often one of the most effective first steps.
Most erectile dysfunction (ED) medications work by improving blood flow to the penis. They belong to a group of drugs called PDE5 inhibitors, which block an enzyme that can restrict circulation during sexual arousal.
When a man is sexually stimulated, these medications help the blood vessels relax and open up. This allows more blood to reach the penis, making it easier to get and maintain an erection. The medication doesn’t cause an erection on its own — sexual stimulation is still needed for it to work.
The effects vary based on the specific drug, but most begin to work within 30 to 60 minutes and last for a few hours or more. Timing, dosage, and how the body responds can influence results, so it’s important to follow medical guidance and avoid mixing with substances like alcohol or nitrates.
Several prescription medications are available to treat erectile dysfunction. Each one works in a similar way but has different timing, duration, and tolerability depending on the patient’s needs and health conditions.
Sildenafil is a PDE5 inhibitor and was the first oral medication approved to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It’s best known by its brand name Viagra, but it's also available as a lower-cost generic.
Sildenafil blocks the enzyme PDE5, which restricts blood flow in the penis. By inhibiting this enzyme, sildenafil enhances blood circulation during sexual arousal, making it easier to achieve and maintain an erection. It only works with sexual stimulation.
Available in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets, typically taken as needed, about 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity. The effects last for about 4 to 6 hours. A doctor determines the right dosage based on effectiveness and tolerability.
Fast onset of action
Well-studied and widely available
Effective for many men, including those with diabetes or hypertension
Generic versions available
Headache, nasal congestion, flushing, dizziness, and visual disturbances (such as blue-tinted vision or light sensitivity)
Should not be used with nitrate medications
Can cause low blood pressure if mixed with alcohol or incompatible drugs
Not recommended for people with recent heart attacks or strokes
Tadalafil is another PDE5 inhibitor, known by the brand name Cialis, and is also available in generic form. It stands out for its long duration of effect, lasting up to 36 hours.
Tadalafil enhances blood flow by inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme, just like sildenafil. In addition to ED, it is also approved to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — a condition that affects urination in older men.
Tadalafil comes in two treatment approaches:
As needed: 10 mg or 20 mg, taken at least 30 minutes before sex
Daily use: 2.5 mg or 5 mg, once daily, allowing for more spontaneous activity
Longest-lasting ED medication
Flexible dosing options
Can be used for both ED and BPH
Less affected by food or moderate alcohol intake
Back pain, muscle aches, headache, flushing, indigestion
Symptoms may last longer due to the extended half-life
Should not be combined with nitrates or used in cases of severe liver or kidney disease
Viagra is the original brand name for sildenafil, developed by Pfizer. It was the first pill approved for treating ED and remains one of the most recognized options worldwide.
Viagra works the same way as sildenafil. It increases blood flow to the penis by inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme. An erection only occurs with sexual stimulation.
Standard doses include 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg, taken as needed about 1 hour before sex. Effects typically last 4 to 6 hours. Most men start with 50 mg, and the dose is adjusted based on results and tolerance.
Trusted brand with long-standing success
Reliable response in mild to moderate ED
Widely available and prescribed globally
Shares all risks and side effects associated with sildenafil
Should be used under medical supervision in patients with a cardiovascular history
Cialis is the brand name for tadalafil, produced by Eli Lilly. It is known for its extended duration and the ability to support more natural, spontaneous sexual activity.
Cialis improves blood flow by targeting the PDE5 enzyme. Because of its long half-life, the drug remains active in the system longer than any other ED medication. It also relaxes muscles in the prostate and bladder, helping with urinary symptoms.
Cialis offers two formats:
On-demand use: 10 mg or 20 mg before sex
Daily use: 2.5 mg or 5 mg once per day
Long-lasting effects (up to 36 hours)
Ideal for men who prefer flexibility
Also treats BPH symptoms
Food and alcohol have less impact on absorption
Back pain, muscle aches, headache, flushing, and nasal congestion
Some men may feel side effects longer due to its extended action
Not safe with nitrates or in severe liver/kidney conditions
Choosing the right ED medication depends on your lifestyle, health status, and how your body responds to treatment. All approved medications work by improving blood flow, but their timing, duration, and potential side effects can differ.
If you prefer flexibility and spontaneity, a longer-acting option like tadalafil may suit you. For faster onset with shorter effect, avanafil might be more appropriate. For occasional use with proven results, sildenafil and vardenafil are reliable options.
Other factors include how quickly you want it to work, how long you want the effect to last, and whether you’re taking other medications that could cause interactions. Your doctor will help assess these points and guide you to a safe, effective choice.
The best results come from consistent use as prescribed and open communication with a licensed provider who can monitor your progress and adjust the plan if needed.
Getting started with ED treatment is simple and secure with Remote Pharmacy. You complete a quick online health evaluation, and a licensed provider reviews your case. If approved, your prescription is delivered discreetly to your door.
Our team supports you from the first step through every phase of treatment. We help match you with the right medication based on your goals and medical history, with no in-person visits or delays.
Take control of your sexual health with privacy, speed, and real medical guidance. Start today with Remote Pharmacy and move forward with confidence.