Viagra Alternatives: 15 Substitutes To Treat Erectile Dysfunction

Viagra is the most commonly known drug for the treatment of Erectile Dysfunction in men. In this post, we’ll discuss some Viagra alternatives that you should know about.

What Is Viagra?

Viagra is a prescription medication for the treatment of erectile dysfunction or ED. Several men suffer from ED, which is a health condition causing the limpness of the male reproductive organ during an intimate act. Thus, ED causes erectile issues, for which there are many different treatment options.

Although you can buy generic 100mg Viagra online easily and is a reliable option, if you want to look for a viagra alternative, then there are a few reliable options. Some may work like Viagra as in doing the function of a PDE5 inhibitor. Others work differently. The alternative could be a device, surgery, herbal or dietary supplement, lifestyle change, etc.

In the below-given post, we will discuss the most popular Viagra alternatives for erectile dysfunction treatment.

Viagra Alternatives

1. Penile Pump

If you want a viagra alternative then the penile pump is a good option. If you are comfortable using it, then you can purchase one for yourself. This pump utilizes air pressure to increase blood circulation to the male reproductive organ. When the blood is drawn into the organ, a tension ring keeps the blood from flowing out. The penile pump should be however removed after half an hour. Otherwise, it may damage the male reproductive organ due to a lack of blood flow.

2. Arginine

L-arginine is an amino acid. It is found in many food items. This amino acid boosts the production of nitric oxide in the body. This compound helps to make erections hard by dilating blood vessels and increasing the flow of blood to the erectile tissues. L-arginine thus has a positive effect on impotence. It can improve erectile function especially in males with abnormal nitric oxide metabolism. However, Arginine may interact with a few medications. So, it is best to consult with a doctor regarding its use for ED.

3. Weight Management

Obesity is a leading cause of erectile dysfunction. Thus, losing weight can significantly improve sexual performance as well. If your ED is linked to weight problems, then you should follow a balanced diet and exercise daily. Obesity causes blood flow problems, which can make erectile dysfunction worse. You can switch to a better lifestyle practice, such as avoid junk foods and eat more vegetables and fruits. Take small meals regularly than large meals. Also, you should start with brisk walking before trying out a hardcore workout.

4. Ginseng

Korean red ginseng has a lot of health benefits and it is a great viagra alternative. It is a supplement that stimulates a man’s sexual function. It is not sure how this dietary supplement works. But it is thought to increase the synthesis of nitric oxide, which does away with erection issues. It may provide better penile tip rigidity. Before using Ginseng, you must check if you have any allergies to it. Discuss with your doctor about this option before intake.

5. Pelvic Floor Exercise

To strengthen muscles around your penile organ, pelvic floor exercises can greatly help. It manages a steady blood flow to the male reproductive organ and improves erections. You can learn the exercise from a trainer, or you shall also find tutorial videos on the internet. It can take around 3 months of regular pelvic floor exercise to show a positive effect on ED. You need some flexibility and strength to do this exercise, so you should check with a trainer if this regimen will work for you.

Also Read: Exercises For Erectile Dysfunction

6. Pomegranate Juice

Pomegranate is rich in antioxidants. Drinking its juice has several health benefits. It is known to reduce the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease. Thus, it may protect you from ED if consumed regularly. Two of the causes of erectile dysfunction are hypertension and cardiovascular issues. Thus, any way to reduce the impact of these problems can improve the quality of erections.

7. Penile Implants

A penile implant is basically a device, which is inserted through surgery into the reproductive organ of a male. The implant helps to support an erection. Now implants are of three types: self-contained, three-piece inflatable, and malleable. The malleable penile implants have lesser risks of mechanical break-downs. Thus, it is more commonly used by men. But these do not deflate to a non-erect state. The other two implants can deflate but have higher risks of a break-down.

8. Yohimbe

As a traditional treatment before Viagra arrived, doctors used to often prescribe Yohimbe (yohimbine hydrochloride) to men suffering from ED. It may improve the hard-on in men, but has its share of side effects. The medicine may cause jitteriness, headache, anxiety, and in some cases high blood pressure. So, before using this medicine, it is advisable to discuss it with your doctor.

9. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a medical science of inserting needles into skin or body points for general health improvement. If you get acupuncture for erectile dysfunction from a trained professional, it may help. However, there is no significant medical proof of the efficacy of acupuncture for ED treatment. Yet people, who have tried it out for ED, do report some improvement in hard-on.

10. Penile Rings

Constriction or tension ring is also known as the penile ring. It is a device similar to a penile pump but has a longer-lasting effect. However, like its contemporary, the device must not be used longer than 30 minutes so as not to cause any damage to the male reproductive organ. It does improve the quality of erection. But the erection is for a shorter duration than on the use of Viagra.

11. Alprostadil

Alprostadil is a chemical applied topically on the penile organ for ED treatment. It works differently than a PDE5 inhibitor like Viagra. It can be in the form of an injection or cream that is applied directly to the male reproductive organ. But Viagra affects the whole body and not just the reproductive organ of the man. Alprostadil is slightly more effective than ED medicine in question. But it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who do not want to apply or inject anything on their organ.

12. DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)

For normal sexual function and healthy libido in males, testosterone is essential. People with erectile dysfunction may often suffer from low testosterone. Thus, the doctor can provide a prescription testosterone replacement therapy. Over-the-counter supplements that have DHEA contain a hormone that allows the body to produce estrogen and testosterone. It alleviates some of the ED symptoms. However, DHEA may have a few side effects such as hair loss, acne, and suppression of the pituitary function.

13. Ginkgo Biloba

This herbal treatment for ED helps to improve psychological functions. Thus, in a way, Ginkgo Biloba combats cognitive decline and promotes hard erections; making it one of the best viagra alternatives. It works like antidepressant medicines but does not have many side effects. However, it may have a few interactions. Thus, you must confirm with a doctor about using this herbal method as a substitute for Viagra.

14. Sex Therapy

A sex therapist can find a solution to your erection problems. The therapy involves discussing problems in your intimacy and life with the partner. It takes off stress or any psychological issues that can be causing erectile dysfunction. It also involves physical exercises for better erections along with mental health therapy. Both physical and psychological treatments can improve your experience during an intimate act.

15. Horny Goat Weed

Epimedium or Horny Goat Weed has been in use for years as an herbal treatment for erectile dysfunction. The weed contains icariin, which is a compound that acts like Sildenafil. Now Sildenafil is the active ingredient in Viagra that treats ED. Thus, Horny Goat Weed, too, has similar benefits to erection in men. There are few other replacements to Viagra such as zinc supplements, Panax, Rhodiola Rosea, propionyl-L-carnitine, golden root, Indian ginseng, Ashwagandha, L-citrulline, and others.

Viagra Alternatives: Conclusion

Viagra and its alternatives can both work to improve erections. If you are not looking ahead to Viagra treatment for ED, then you can check out the replacements as discussed above. However, prior consultation with a physician will help you know the best option for erectile dysfunction treatment. Your doctor will analyze your health and suggest a suitable viagra alternative.