Men's Health
Erectile dysfunction pills help men achieve and maintain erections firm enough for sex. These medications enhance blood flow to the penis, making it easier to get an erection when you’re sexually stimulated.
There are several types of erectile dysfunction (ED) pills available. Two of the most popular are sildenafil (the active ingredient in Viagra) and tadalafil (the active ingredient in Cialis).
Getting ED medication in the UK is generally straightforward, with both prescription-only and over-the-counter options available. There are a few different things to think about when deciding which ED pill is best for you. For example, it’s important to consider how long the medication lasts, the risk of side effects and how compatible it is with your lifestyle.
Having an open and honest conversation with your Pharmacist is the best way to find the safest and most effective option for you.
Some of these erection pills are designed to be taken shortly before you plan to have sex, while others are formulated for daily use, allowing you to get an erection whenever you’re sexually stimulated.
Choosing The Best Erection Pills
| Medication | Price | Dosage | Onset | Duration | Pharmacy Status | Generic/Brand |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sildenafil | From £6.99 | 25mg, 50mg, 100mg | 30–60 minutes | 4–6 hours | Prescription-only | Generic version of Viagra |
| Tadalafil | From £8.99 | 10mg, 20mg | 30–60 minutes | Up to 36 hours | Prescription-only | Generic version of Cialis |
Sildenafil: Best For Immediate Results
Sildenafil is a popular choice for men who want an ED pill that acts fast. This active ingredient, sold as generic tablets and under brand names like Viagra and Liberize, takes as little as 30-60 minutes to start working. It should remain active for 4-6 hours after ingestion.
If you take sildenafil, you may experience common side effects like headaches or a stuffy nose, though these are usually mild, and will generally subside within a few hours.
If you have a cardiovascular condition, you’ll need to be careful when taking sildenafil as it affects blood vessels throughout the body, not just those in the penis. Talk to your doctor to find out if sildenafil is a safe option for you.
Tadalafil: Best For Prolonged Duration
Tadalafil stands out as the best ED pill for duration. Capable of lasting 24-36 hours per dose, its exceptionally long effectiveness makes it a popular choice for men who want flexibility. Taking a single tablet provides reliable erection support for an entire day and night, and may even allow for spontaneity the next day.
While tadalafil is generally well-tolerated, some men may experience mild side effects such as headaches or muscle pain. Anyone on nitrates or with a serious heart or liver condition should seek medical guidance to ensure tadalafil is safe for them to use.
Overall, tadalafil could help men to achieve firm erections for a full 24-36 hours from one dose. However, you’ll still need to be sexually aroused in order to achieve an erection during this timeframe.
