Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Erectile Dysfunction

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Problems getting an erection can be a sign of an underlying health condition that needs treatment.

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (impotence) is the inability to get and maintain an erection firm enough for sex.

Insight:

Problems getting or keeping an erection can also be a sign of an underlying health condition that needs treatment and is a risk factor for heart disease.
Symptoms may include trouble getting an erection, trouble keeping an erection, and reduced sexual desire.
Erectile dysfunction may be caused by abnormalities in the brain, hormones, emotions, nerves, muscles, and blood vessels.
Risk factors may include having certain medication conditions, such as a heart condition, tobacco use, being overweight, injuries, and medications.
Treatment may include medications such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Stendra).
Other medications may include Alprostadil self-injection, Alprostadil urethral suppository, and testosterone replacement.
Lastly, devices can also be used as treatment options, which may include a penis pump and penile implants.

Sources:

Erectile dysfunction - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic