What Are the Benefits of Male Sexual Enhancement Pills?

ED occurs when a man cannot achieve an erection or cannot maintain an erection long enough to have sex. It is not unusual to have trouble with an erection occasionally, particularly as you age, but some men develop a long-term problem. While doctors used to believe that ED was primarily a psychological problem, they now recognize it as a mostly physical problem, caused by the effects of such conditions as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, multiple sclerosis, hormonal disorders and prostate cancer. Certain prescription medication can cause ED, as can long-term alcohol, recreational drug or tobacco use. ED is more than just a physical problem and can negatively affect your relationship and even your self-esteem.

For many years, men with ED had no choice but to forgo sex. The relatively recent development of oral medications known as phosphodiesterase inhibitors has made it possible for men with ED to achieve erections and resume their sex lives. Vardenafil (Levitra), Sildenafil (Viagra) and Tadalafil (Cialis) all work to relax the muscles in the penis. When the muscles are relaxed, more blood can flow into the penis. Good blood flow is needed to achieve an erection that is firm enough for intercourse. Sexual stimulation is needed for these drugs to work; an erection does not result just because you have taken a pill. For many men, a particular drug may work on the first try. For others, it may require several tries. Your doctor may want to change your dosage if you feel that your prescription is not working well or he may suggest you try a different medication.

Drug manufacturers suggest that you take these pills about an hour before you plan to have sex, although you may see results in as little as 30 minutes. The effects of Viagra last about four hours, while Levitra can help you achieve an erection for up to five hours. Cialis may work for up to 36 hours after you take it. Of the three drugs, Cialis is the only one that can be taken on a daily basis if recommended by your doctor.

Anyone who has had a stroke, irregular heart rate or heart attack in the previous six months cannot take these drugs. If you are taking nitrates for angina, you cannot take an ED pill because the combination of the pill and the nitrates may cause your blood pressure to drop dangerously low. Other conditions that will exclude you from taking an ED pill include low blood pressure, uncontrolled high blood pressure or chest pain, especially if you experience the pain during sex.

Call your doctor or go to the emergency room if you are taking ED pills and develop a rash, chest pain, fainting or a burning or itching sensation during urination. Seek treatment immediately if you notice vision loss in one or both eyes. In rare cases, the blood flow to the optic nerve can be blocked, resulting in a condition called nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy. If you have an erection that lasts longer than four hours, go to the emergency room. If you ignore this condition, your penis can become permanently damaged and you may be unable to achieve erections in the future.