Erectile Dysfunction Treatments: What is the Best Time to Take the Medications?

Just as it sounds, erectile dysfunction (ED) treatments are medications, procedures or therapies for treating erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence. Read more here: https://dbclinic.com.sg/erectile-dysfunction/.

Known as PDE-5 inhibitors, ED medications work by enhancing blood flow to the penis to improve sexual stimulation response but not induce automatic erections. Typically, the main aim of erectile dysfunction treatments is to address the physical causes of ED like restricted blood flow or nerve damage, etc.

If you’re struggling with ED, these medications can help you achieve and maintain erections, to ensure better sexual activity and improve your quality of life. On this page, we address the frequently asked question; when is the best time to take ED medication? We also explain what to expect after taking erectile dysfunction treatments. Keep reading!

When is the Best Time to Take ED Medication?

When it comes to erectile dysfunction treatment, usually, the first-line of treatment involves oral medicines. These medications, including Avanafil (Stendra), Sildenafil (Viagra), Tadalafil (Cialis), and Vardenafil, are effective and have minimal side effects.

Among the many people who visit our clinic for erectile dysfunction treatment in Singapore, one of the most frequently asked questions is; when is the best time to take ED medication? Here’s a simple answer;

In most cases, the best time to take erectile dysfunction medications is about 30 minutes to 1 hour before sex. This difference is brought about by the fact that each medication has a slightly different chemical composition which affects how quickly it works and any potential side effects.

Your healthcare provider can recommend the best option based on your health condition and other medications you may be taking. Here is a quick roundup of what to expect with the most popular treatment options for ED;

Vardenafil (Levitra): This medication is most effective when taken about an hour before sexual activity on an empty stomach. To ensure that vardenafil gets absorbed quickly, please avoid high-fat meals and alcohol before taking the medication. Vardenafil typically lasts for 4 to 5 hours. However, its effects may be prolonged if you’re only troubled with mild to moderate ED. A newer, faster-acting form of the medication that dissolves on the tongue is also available.

Avanafil (Stendra): For erectile dysfunction treatment, this medication can be taken with or without food about 30 minutes before sexual activity. This depends on the dose though. Like other ED medications, avanafil increases blood flow to the penis to help in achieving and maintaining an erection. It typically lasts for 4 to 5 hours. Like vardenafil, its effects may be extended if you’re only dealing with mild to moderate ED.

Sildenafil (Viagra): Now, this is one of the most well-known medications for ED treatment. It is best taken on an empty stomach about an hour before sexual activity. However, consuming a high-fat meal or alcohol can delay its absorption. Sildenafil typically lasts for 4 to 5 hours. Also, its effects may be prolonged for those with mild to moderate ED.

Tadalafil (Cialis): This medication is unique among ED medications because it can be taken in a small daily dose or a larger dose as needed. It can be taken with or without food about an hour before sexual activity. With effects that can last for up to 36 hours tadalafil is one of the most popular choices for many men with ED.

How do I Choose the Best ED Medication?

Deciding to seek treatment for ED is a huge step. And, one thing you do not want to get wrong for your erectile dysfunction treatment is your choice of medication. So you may want to ask your men’s sexual health expert; how do I choose the best ED medication?

It is simple. To choose the best ED medication, consider your health, lifestyle, and preferences. For instance, younger individuals, below age 50 might benefit from tadalafil (Cialis), whereas older persons with other health concerns might find sildenafil (Viagra) or vardenafil (Levitra) more suitable.

Tadalafil offers a daily pill option, which you can take to help with ED though some people prefer on-demand medications that can just be used before sexual activity. The other options for ED treatment that you may want to consider include injections, testosterone replacement therapy, behavioral or psychotherapies, and sound waves that target the inner lining of the blood vessels of the penis.

Just to be sure, consult with a knowledgeable healthcare professional to help you determine the most appropriate choice for you. When consulting about the best treatment for ED, here are some sample questions you may want to ask your doctor;

Which ED treatment with the least side effects can you recommend? It is important that you fully understand the potential side effects of ED medication. Some pills may cause headaches, flushing, or nasal congestion. Also, some may have more serious side effects. A good doctor for erectile dysfunction can help you choose a medication with the fewest side effects based on your health profile.
What are some serious side effects of ED pills that I should know about? Serious side effects with erectile dysfunction treatments are quite rare. However, some medications can cause serious side effects such as priapism (prolonged erection), for example. Also, some might cause sudden hearing loss or vision changes.
Which ED pills have the fewest drug interactions: This is particularly crucial if you’re taking other medications. Since some ED pills can interact with medications used to treat heart conditions or high blood pressure, your doctor should be able to help you choose a medication that is safe to use with your other medications.
Which ED pill has the least risks for long-term vs. short-term use? A knowledgeable ED doctor can help you determine whether you need a medication for long-term or short-term use. As you have seen, some ED pills are suitable for daily use. Also, there are options that are best taken as needed. Your doctor can recommend the safest option based on your needs and health status.
Does my age influence which ED pill is best for me? Age can be a factor in choosing the right ED medication. For example, older persons above age 50 may be more sensitive to certain medications. Or, they may just have underlying health conditions that need to be considered. A knowledgeable provider can recommend a medication that is safe and effective based on your age.

The Bottom Line

In the vast majority of cases, the best time to take ED medications is about 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity. This might change though depending on the type of medications you’re recommended and your unique condition. Seek clarity from an experienced provider to be sure.

Dr. Ben is available to provide assessments and tailored erectile dysfunction treatment in Singapore. To schedule an appointment, catch him at;

Dr Ben Medical @ Raffles / Tanjong Pagar

SBF Center Medical Suites

160 Robinson Road

#03-09 SBF Center Medical Suites

Singapore 068914

https://www.drbenmedical.sg/

+65 888 12344