Guides / Understanding ED

ED guides, with every source shown.

Clear information about erectile dysfunction, treatment options and what to expect from a consultation. Every statement links to its source, and each guide shows the date it was checked against those sources.

pages in this section

Every page lists its sources and is checked against them. We only cite trusted medical sources such as the NHS, NICE, the MHRA and each medicine's official product information.

Understanding ED2 pages

Understanding ED and its causesErectile dysfunction (ED) is common and often treatable. It can have physical causes, psychological causes, or both, and can sometimes be a sign of another health condition.Checked against its sources
ED and heart healthErection problems and heart disease can share the same causes, such as narrowed blood vessels. ED can be an early sign worth mentioning to your GP.Checked against its sources

Your options2 pages

Beyond medicationTablets aren't the only option. Lifestyle changes, talking therapies, vacuum pumps and treating an underlying cause can all help with erection problems.Checked against its sources
Talking about EDErection problems are common, and talking about them, with a partner or a professional, is often the first step to sorting them out.Checked against its sources

Treatment basics4 pages

ED treatment overviewThe most common treatments for erection problems are PDE5 inhibitor tablets, such as sildenafil and tadalafil. They need a prescriber's assessment and work alongside sexual arousal.Checked against its sources
Sildenafil explainedSildenafil is a medicine for erection problems, taken before sex when needed. Viagra is one brand. Here's general information to discuss with a pharmacist or prescriber.Checked against its sources
Tadalafil explainedTadalafil is a medicine for erection problems whose effect can last up to 36 hours. It can be taken when needed or as a lower daily dose. Cialis is one brand.Checked against its sources
Your first ED consultationWhether with your GP or an online pharmacy, an ED consultation asks about your health and medicines so a prescriber can decide if treatment is safe for you.Checked against its sources

Practical guidance4 pages

Choosing an ED pharmacyBuy ED medicines only from a registered pharmacy that runs a proper consultation. Here's how to check, and what else to compare.Checked against its sources
Travel, delivery and storageHow to travel with prescription ED medicines, what to expect from delivery, and how to store them.Checked against its sources
Managing ED treatmentRepeat prescriptions, switching pharmacy, and what to do if treatment isn't working. Always through your prescriber, never by changing the dose yourself.Checked against its sources
ED medicine news and alertsSafety alerts and news about ED medicines, including warnings about fake medicines sold online.Checked against its sources