Medically reviewed by Notre équipe éditoriale
Written by Anne-Sophie Laignel
Last updated 1/31/2025 - 5 min read
Erectile dysfunction can have various causes:
A doctor is the only professional qualified to assess the origin of the problem and to propose an appropriate treatment. Insufficient erection can be a symptom of an underlying disease that requires specific treatment. Taking medication without medical supervision can conceal a more serious problem and delay proper management.
Erectile dysfunction medications are subject to medical prescription. They mainly belong to the class of phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Their role is to promote blood flow to the penis by inhibiting an enzyme responsible for detumescence (loss of erection).
These medications are generally well tolerated, but they are not suitable for everyone and can cause side effects:
In some rare cases, more serious complications can occur, including significant drops in blood pressure, chest pain, or priapism (prolonged and painful erection requiring urgent medical attention).
That's why it is imperative to never take these medications without medical advice. An assessment of your health condition will help to avoid dangerous interactions with other treatments and to identify any potential contraindications.
Faced with the dangers of self-medication, some men turn to natural solutions to improve their erection. Although certain plants and dietary supplements may have a beneficial effect on blood circulation and libido, they do not replace a validated medical treatment.
Here are some examples:
Even though these products are available without a prescription, it is recommended to consult a doctor before using them, especially if you have underlying health issues.
One of the major dangers of erectile dysfunction drugs is their illegal sale on the Internet. Many counterfeits are in circulation and often contain active substances in random quantities, or even toxic components.
According to health authorities, over 50% of the drugs sold online are counterfeit. Not only are they ineffective, but they can also lead to serious side effects. It is therefore crucial to never purchase these treatments without a prescription and to always go through an official channel (physical pharmacies or accredited online platforms).
If you suffer from erectile dysfunction, it is crucial to consult a doctor to identify the cause of the problem and receive appropriate treatment. Medications like Viagra®, Cialis®, or Levitra® are effective, but must be taken under medical supervision to avoid any health risks.
In parallel, a healthy lifestyle (physical activity, balanced diet, stress reduction) can play a key role in improving sexual performance.
In summary:
Sexual health is an integral part of overall well-being, and serious and structured care can lead to a lasting improvement in quality of life.
The IIEF-5 Index is a recognized tool to assess erectile function. Answer 5 questions and discover your score and options in complete confidentiality.
IIEF-5
Over the last six months
How do you rate your confidence that you could get and keep an erection?
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Moderate
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Very high