What is the Best Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction?
Table of contents:
- How Does Erectile Dysfunction Medication Work?
- What are the Best Erectile Dysfunction Pills in the UK?
- What is the Best Cream for Erectile Dysfunction?
- The Best Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction: Head-to-Head
- The Best Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction: Frequently Asked Questions
- Reliable Support from Prescription Doctor
Erectile dysfunction is a common condition that affects millions of men around the world. While it can have a huge impact on self-esteem, advancements in medicine have provided numerous treatment options, allowing men to regain their sexual confidence and satisfaction.
Given the abundance of options, you’re likely to be wondering what the best treatment for erectile dysfunction actually is. Well, you’ve come to the right place, as this is exactly what we’ll be covering in this article.
Join us as we outline the various pills, creams, and gels available, discuss the pros and cons of each, and pit them head-to-head so you can make an informed decision.
How Does Erectile Dysfunction Medication Work?
The first-line treatment for erectile dysfunction is a group of medications called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which include sildenafil, vardenafil, tadalafil, or avanafil. These work by relaxing the blood vessels in the penis to increase blood flow and help you get and keep an erection that’s hard enough for sex.
These medications do not work on their own, and sexual stimulation is required to experience their full benefit. Some of the most common branded pills include Viagra, Cialis, and Spedra, which are all oral pills that need to be taken before you intend to have sex and can last for 4 to 36 hours, depending on the type. However, other treatments are available, including topical creams and gels that can work similarly to PDE5 inhibitors (Vitaros Cream) or by stimulating the nerves in the head of the penis to cause an erection (Eroxon gel).
Here, we’ll discuss the effectiveness, potential side effects, and dosing schedules for a range of popular erectile dysfunction medications, including prescription and over-the-counter options, as well as oral tablets and topical solutions, enabling you to make an informed decision about which option is best for you and your sex life.
What are the Best Erectile Dysfunction Pills in the UK?
Several erectile dysfunction pills are available in the UK, including prescription and over-the-counter options. They all belong to the same class of medications, PDE-5 inhibitors, so they work by increasing blood flow to the penis to cause an erection, but they contain different active ingredients. Some pills may be more effective than others for some people, as they have different benefits and drawbacks.
Here, we take a look at the different erectile dysfunction pills in more detail.
Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate)
Viagra, commonly known as “the little blue pill,” is the most famous erectile dysfunction treatment. Its active ingredient, sildenafil, helps 74% of men achieve and maintain erections at the standard 50 mg dose. It’s well tolerated, and Viagra’s side effects are usually mild and temporary, which may include headaches, flushing, and indigestion.
Benefits:
- Rapid onset of action: Viagra typically takes effect within 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion, allowing for spontaneity.
- Proven efficacy: Extensive clinical trials have shown Viagra's effectiveness in improving erectile function and enhancing sexual performance.
- Flexible dosing: Available in different strengths, Viagra allows for dose adjustment based on individual needs and tolerability.
- Long-lasting effects: Viagra's effects can last for 4 to 6 hours, providing an extended window of opportunity for sexual activity.
Potential Drawbacks
- Timing and planning: Viagra needs to be taken approximately 30 minutes to an hour before sexual activity, requiring some planning ahead.
- Potential side effects: While generally well-tolerated, Viagra may cause mild-to-moderate side effects such as headaches, flushing, indigestion, or nasal congestion.
- Prescription requirement: Viagra is a prescription-only medication, necessitating consultation with a healthcare professional. However, Viagra Connect is an over-the-counter option that’s available in a 50 mg dose and available following a short consultation with a clinician – no prescription needed.
Viagra
- Original clinically proven treatment
- Available in 25 mg, 50 mg and 100 mg
- Registered prescribers are on hand
Generic Sildenafil
Generic sildenafil is an alternative to Viagra as it contains the same active ingredient, is available in the same dosages, and works in exactly the same way. Generic sildenafil is a cost-effective alternative because it lacks the brand name but produces the same therapeutic results. Perrigo sildenafil is a generic over-the-counter option available in a 50 mg dose.
Benefits
- Affordability: Sildenafil is often more cost-effective than the brand-name Viagra.
- Equivalent efficacy: Clinical studies have demonstrated that sildenafil has similar effectiveness to Viagra in treating ED.
- Rapid onset of action: Research shows that, on average, 60% of erections were achieved within 25 minutes with sildenafil.
Potential Drawbacks
- Side effects: Like Viagra, sildenafil may cause mild-to-moderate side effects, although they are generally well-tolerated and transient.
Prescription requirement: Sildenafil also requires a prescription to ensure safe and appropriate use. Perrigo sildenafil 50 mg is available without a prescription.
Sildenafil (Viagra)
- Sildenafil is the active ingredient found in Viagra
- As effective as the branded treatments
- Registered prescribers are on hand
Cialis (Tadalafil)
Cialis contains the active ingredient tadalafil and is known as the “weekend pill” because it is the longest-lasting erectile dysfunction pill, remaining active for up to 36 hours. 87% of men treated with Cialis are satisfied with the medication, and 81% report that it effectively improved their erections.
Benefits
- Extended duration: Cialis provides a longer window of opportunity for sexual activity, with effects lasting up to 36 hours.
- Improved spontaneity: Due to its long-lasting effects, Cialis allows for a more relaxed approach to sexual encounters without strict timing constraints.
- Lower-dose daily option: Cialis offers a lower-dose version that can be taken daily, ensuring continuous readiness for sexual activity.
- Over-the-counter option: Cialis Together is a 10 mg dose available without a prescription and effective for more than 80% of people.
Potential Drawbacks
- Side effects: Common side effects include headaches, indigestion, muscle aches, and back pain.
- Prescription requirement: Cialis is available only with a prescription from a healthcare professional.
Cialis (Tadalafil)
- Cialis is famous due to its 36-hour effect
- 99% effective for many men
- Registered prescribers are on hand
Spedra (Avanafil)
Spedra is the fastest-acting erectile dysfunction medication, getting to work in as little as 15 minutes. It contains the active ingredient avanafil and can last for up to 6 hours. Clinical trial data show that avanafil is effective in up to 59% of men compared to 28% given a placebo.
Benefits
- Rapid onset: Spedra has a faster onset of action compared to other ED medications, with effects noticeable within 15 to 30 minutes.
- Flexible dosing: Spedra is available in 50 mg, 100 mg, and 200 mg doses, with 100 mg being the standard strength.
- Spontaneity: Spedra can last for 4 to 6 hours, allowing some spontaneity to be retained.
Potential Drawbacks
- Limited availability: Spedra may not be as widely available as other ED treatments, and its cost may vary.
- Side effects: Similar to other ED medications, Spedra may cause common side effects such as headaches, flushing, or nasal congestion.
- Prescription requirement: A prescription is required to obtain Spedra.
Spedra
- Original clinically proven treatment
- Available in 50 mg, 100 mg and 200 mg
- Registered prescribers are on hand
Aronix (Sildenafil)
Aronix is a branded version of sildenafil that is available over the counter without a prescription. It is an alternative to Viagra Connect, which is also available prescription-free. Aronix is available in a 50 mg dose and has been found to improve erections in 74% of people with erectile dysfunction.
Benefits
- Over-the-counter approved dose: Aronix does not require a prescription and can be purchased after a brief consultation with a clinician or pharmacist.
- Reduces stigma of ED: Over-the-counter access helps normalise the conversation around ED, encouraging more people to get help.
- Convenience: Aronix allows patients to get treatment without a face-to-face consultation with a doctor.
- As effective as prescription-only sildenafil: Contains the same active ingredient and in the standard 50 mg dose.
Potential Drawbacks
- Fixed dosage: Only available as a 50 mg dose, so if you require a lower or higher strength, you will need a prescription.
- Not suitable for underlying health conditions: If you have certain underlying health conditions, like heart or kidney disease, you may need to see a doctor or rule out any potential risk factors.
- Side effects: Can cause similar side effects to generic sildenafil, such as headaches and flushing.
Aronix (Sildenafil)
- Alternative to Viagra Connect
- Available without prescription
- Fast and discreet delivery from a UK pharmacy
Price : £14.99
What is the Best Cream for Erectile Dysfunction?
ED pills aren’t the only treatment option. Topical creams and gels act locally and may suit you better if you have underlying health conditions or prefer not to take tablets. The best choice depends on how quickly you want it to work, how your body responds, and how long you need it to last.
Vitaros Cream (Alprostadil)
The active ingredient in Vitaros Cream, alprostadil, is a type of prostaglandin, which works by increasing blood flow to the penis and enabling you to get and keep an erection. It is a second-line ED treatment that is effective in 31% to 40% of people. Vitaros Cream is applied directly into the urethra or opening of the penis.
Benefits
- Topical application: Vitaros Cream is applied directly to the penis, which may be a preferred option for those averse to oral medications or injections.
- Rapid onset: Vitaros Cream can take effect within 5 to 30 minutes after application, providing a quick response for sexual activity.
Potential Drawbacks
- Local side effects: Vitaros Cream may cause local reactions, such as mild to moderate burning or itching at the application site.
- Cost and availability: Vitaros Cream may be more expensive than oral medications and might not be as readily available in some regions.
- Prescription requirement: A prescription is necessary to obtain Vitaros Cream.
Vitaros cream
- Easy to apply
- Fast working
- Available from a UK-registered pharmacy
Eroxon Gel
Eroxon gel is a fast-acting, over-the-counter ED treatment. It can work in as little as 10 minutes, improving erections in 60% of men, and because it contains no active ingredients, it has little chance of side effects. Eroxon gel works uniquely by causing a warming and cooling effect, stimulating blood to flow to the penis, resulting in an erection.
Benefits
- Low chance of side effects: Eroxon gel does not contain any active ingredients and works by warming and cooling the penis, so there is a reduced risk of side effects.
- No prescription needed: Eroxon gel can be bought over-the-counter without a doctor’s approval.
- Fast acting: Can be effective in as little as 10 minutes.
- Unique mechanism of action: It works by stimulating the penis through a cooling and warming effect that increases blood flow, resulting in an erection, helping 60% of people get an erection in less than 10 minutes.
Potential Drawbacks
- Short duration: Eroxon gel typically lasts for an hour, so you may need to be reapplied, or it may not be suitable if you need an erection for longer.
- Not a cure for underlying issues: If ED is caused by an underlying health issue, Eroxon gel is not a cure.
- Lower success rate: It has a lower success rate than other popular ED medications.
Eroxon Gel
- Eroxon treats erectile dysfunction
- Erection within 10 minutes
- Few & mild side effects
Price : £23.99
The Best Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction: Head-to-Head
With several effective treatments available for erectile dysfunction, choosing the right one for you can feel overwhelming. Here, we compare the most popular options head-to-head to help you understand how they differ in their speed of onset, duration, and suitability, so you can make a more informed choice.
Spedra vs Viagra
Although Spedra (avanafil) and Viagra (sildenafil) belong to the same class of drugs known as PDE5 inhibitors, Spedra works faster. Many people find that Spedra helps them get an erection within 15 minutes, whereas Viagra usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. However, Viagra has a higher success rate, 74%, compared to Spedra’s 59%.
Cialis vs Sildenafil
Cialis (tadalafil) and sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, both effectively manage ED, but the biggest difference between them is how long they last. Cialis has a much longer duration, 36 hours, compared to sildenafil, which remains effective for between 4 and 6 hours. For men who prefer flexibility and less planning, Cialis may be a more suitable option. However, if cost is a deciding factor, generic sildenafil is a more cost-effective ED treatment.
Viagra vs Tadalafil
Viagra and tadalafil work similarly to manage ED by relaxing the smooth muscles and increasing blood flow to the penis, but they differ in how long they remain effective. Viagra and tadalafil usually take 30 to 60 minutes to work, so both require some planning before use. However, the effects of tadalafil can last for 36 hours compared to Viagra, which may remain effective for 4 to 6 hours. Because tadalafil is a generic version of Cialis, and Viagra is a branded medication, tadalafil may be available at a lower cost.
Eroxon Gel vs Vitaros Cream
Topical treatments like Eroxon gel and Vitaros Cream can be effective alternatives to pills. Eroxon gel works by stimulating blood flow to the penis through a unique cooling and warming action, and can work in as little as 10 minutes. Because it does not contain any active ingredients and is considered to be a medical device rather than a medication, Eroxon gel is less likely to cause side effects.
Vitaros cream contains alprostadil, a medication that widens blood vessels to cause an erection, usually within 5 to 30 minutes. Eroxon gel is available without a prescription, making it a convenient over-the-counter choice, while Vitaros requires a prescription from a clinician.
Tablets vs Creams & Gels
ED pills like Viagra, Cialis, and Spedra are the most widely used and effective treatments for erectile dysfunction, offering predictable results and well-studied safety profiles. However, creams and gels like Vitaros and Eroxon can be a great alternative for anyone who prefers to avoid oral medication or has experienced side effects, like headaches, flushing or nausea with ED tablets. Equally, if you are looking for a fast-acting option, creams and gels can help you get an erection in as little as 5 to 10 minutes, whereas most pills require at least 30 minutes.
Choosing the right option for you will ultimately come down to personal preference, convenience, effectiveness, and how quickly you want the treatment to work.
The Best Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction: Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re looking for the best treatment for erectile dysfunction, you’re likely to have a few questions about how they work, how long they last, and whether you can expect any side effects from them. Here, we answer all of these queries, and more.
How Do Oral Medications for Erectile Dysfunction Work?
Oral medications for erectile dysfunction (known as phosphodiesterase type 5, or PDE5, inhibitors) work by increasing blood flow to the penis, facilitating an erection when sexual stimulation occurs. It’s important to note that these treatments don’t cause an erection entirely by themselves; you also need to be sexually excited for them to work.
How Long Do ED Medications Last?
Different ED medications last for different periods of time, depending on factors such as the strength of the active ingredient and the method of administration. For example, Viagra and Sildenafil typically last for between 4 to 6 hours, while Cialis can work for up to 36 hours. Spedra has a shorter duration, usually lasting around 4 to 5 hours.
Are ED Medications Safe?
Yes, ED medications are safe to use when taken as guided and under the supervision of a clinician or other healthcare professional. However, they may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with specific medical conditions or taking certain medications. It's essential to consult a doctor before starting any treatment.
What are the Side Effects of Erectile Dysfunction Medication?
Common side effects of erectile dysfunction medication include headaches, facial flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, and dizziness. You may also experience muscle aches or back pain. These side effects are usually mild and will clear up quite quickly. If you experience more serious symptoms or suffer from them regularly, it’s advised to contact a clinician for assistance.
Can I Take ED Medications if I Have Other Medical Conditions?
In some cases, certain medical conditions may interact with erectile dysfunction treatments. It’s therefore essential to consult a clinician or other healthcare professional before starting a course of medication. They will be able to assess your individual situation and recommend what is best for you.
Reliable Support from Prescription Doctor
If you’re dealing with erectile dysfunction, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Help is available, so you can regain your confidence.
At Prescription Doctor, we have a range of erectile dysfunction medications in tablet, cream, and gel form — making it highly likely that you’ll be able to find the right one for your circumstances. All orders are assessed by our team of experienced clinicians to ensure the treatment is safe and suitable for you.
We know that ED can be an extremely sensitive subject, which is why we ensure that your treatment is dispatched in plain packaging that does not divulge its contents. Discretion is guaranteed. Orders approved before 3pm on a weekday are eligible for next-day delivery, so there are no long waits. All our medication is licensed for use in the UK and processed by our General Pharmaceutical Council-registered dispensing pharmacy.
Ready to take back control? Start your consultation with Prescription Doctor today.
Sources
- EMC (2025): Cialis Together 10mg tablets.
- EMC (2025): Sildenafil 50 mg film-coated tablets.
- EMC (2024): Aronix 50 mg Film-Coated Tablets.
- EMC (2024): Spedra 200 mg tablets.
- EMC (2024): Viagra Connect 50 mg film-coated tablets.
- EMC (2024): Vitaros 3 mg/g cream.
- EMC (2023): Cialis 20mg film-coated tablets.
- European Urology (2004): Efficacy and Treatment Satisfaction with On-Demand Tadalafil (Cialis®) in Men with Erectile Dysfunction.
- NICE (2025): Erectile dysfunction.
- NICE (2014): Erectile dysfunction: Alprostadil cream.
- NIH (2023): PDE5 Inhibitors.
- PubMed (2000): Sildenafil citrate (Viagra) is effective and well tolerated for treating erectile dysfunction of psychogenic or mixed aetiology.
- The Journal of Urology (2024): PD52-07 EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF MED3000, A NOVEL TOPICAL THERAPY FOR THE TREATMENT OF ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION.
Authored By
Leanne Edermaniger
Medical Content WriterPublished on: 19/06/2023 Re-Published on: 16/10/2025
Reviewed By
Mohamed Imran Lakhi
MPharm - Lead PharmacistReviewed on: 16/10/2025
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