Men's Health

Choosing erectile dysfunction drugs

Here's how the different medications work.

By , Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch

photo of a couple in bed smiling

Since the 1990s, erectile dysfunction (ED) drugs have helped millions of men continue to enjoy an active sex life.

"While not much has changed in how they work or the types of drugs available, there still are things men should consider when choosing which one to try," says Dr. Michael O'Leary, a urologist and former director of men's health at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women's Hospital's Department of Urology.

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About the Author

photo of Matthew Solan

Matthew Solan, Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s … See Full Bio
View all posts by Matthew Solan

About the Reviewer

photo of Howard E. LeWine, MD

Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing

Dr. Howard LeWine is a practicing internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Chief Medical Editor at Harvard Health Publishing, and editor in chief of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. See Full Bio
View all posts by Howard E. LeWine, MD

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As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

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Erectile Dysfunction

With all the ads on TV and in magazines heralding treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED). But it’s important to be aware that many men can ease, or even reverse, ED by making simple lifestyle changes — such as losing excess weight and quitting smoking — that also are likely to boost their overall health and reduce their chances of developing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome. This Special Health Report, Erectile Dysfunction, offers a comprehensive review of these treatments, as well as the causes of erectile dysfunction and how ED may be an early warning sign for other serious health problems.

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