Some types of erectile dysfunction medication (such as
Viagra,
Levitra, and
Cialis) are taken orally. Known as phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors, these drugs are taken one hour prior to sexual activity. While oral forms of
ED medication improve the response to sexual stimulation, they do not trigger an automatic erection as injections do.
Drugs like papaverine hydrochloride, phentolamine, and alprostadil are injected into the penis -- and alprostadil can alternately be inserted into the urethra in pellet form, through a system called MUSE.
(Click Erectile Dysfunction Medication to learn more, including information on side effects, drug interactions, and how to take each type of medicine. You can also click on any of the links in the box to the right for more specific information.)
