Topical remedies feasible for managing erectile dysfunction?
As of July 2025, Vitaros remains the only FDA-approved topical cream for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) in the United States. This topical cream, containing the active ingredient alprostadil, has demonstrated efficacy in clinical trials.
Other topical treatments, such as a topical sildenafil cream by Daré Bioscience, are in development or under regulatory consideration. However, as of now, no other FDA approvals for topical ED treatments beyond Vitaros currently exist.
| Topical Cream | Active Ingredient | FDA Approval Status | Indication | |---------------|--------------------|------------------------------|-----------------------| | Vitaros | Alprostadil | FDA-approved (for ED in men) | Erectile Dysfunction | | Daré to PLAY™ | Sildenafil (cream) | Expected Q4 2025 (not yet approved) | Female sexual arousal |
Topical treatments for ED aim to increase blood flow to the penis by widening the blood vessels. However, it's important to note that topical creams for ED are not currently approved by the FDA for use in the United States.
For those seeking treatment for ED, it's crucial to work with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and discuss alternative treatments. This may include sex therapy, penis pumps, or oral medications like Viagra.
Online platforms like Hims offer Viagra and generic Viagra for purchase. However, the drawbacks of using Viagra through Hims include potential side effects, cost if using the brand-name version, the need to be taken an hour before sexual intercourse, and potential interactions with other medications.
In contrast, the benefits of using Viagra include its wide use and extensive research, as well as its ability to help a person achieve and maintain an erection. However, it's essential to consult with a doctor before starting any treatment for ED.
For those who prefer non-pharmaceutical options, the POS-T-VAC Vacuum Erection System is a battery-powered pump that can help with ED. Additionally, Talkspace offers online therapy services for individual and couples therapy for ED.
It's also worth noting that ED can be caused by psychological factors such as anxiety, depression, stress, or physiological factors such as increased age, type 2 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and side effects of certain medications.
Involving a partner in discussions about ED can be beneficial, as research shows that 94% of males with ED felt that the support of their partner was important.
In summary, while topical creams for ED are not currently available in the U.S., it's important to consult with a doctor about ED symptoms and explore various treatment options, including topical treatments once they become available.
- As new topical treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED) such as Daré Bioscience's topical sildenafil cream are in development, the FDA approval status currently only applies to Vitaros, which is FDA-approved for ED in men.
- For those who wish to explore alternative treatments for ED, options like sex therapy, penis pumps, or oral medications like Viagra may be discussed with a healthcare professional.
- Despite the availability of online platforms like Hims for purchasing Viagra, it's important to consider potential side effects, costs for brand-name versions, and the need for it to be taken an hour before sexual intercourse when using this medication.
- The POS-T-VAC Vacuum Erection System, a battery-powered pump, offers a non-pharmaceutical option for ED treatment.
- ED can be a complex medical condition, with potential causes ranging from psychological factors like anxiety and depression to physiological factors such as increased age, type 2 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and side effects of certain medications.
- Involving a partner in discussions about ED can provide important support, as research indicates that the majority (94%) of males with ED find their partner's support to be essential.
- Considering the potential long-term effects of ED and chronic diseases like nsclc (non-small cell lung cancer) and alzheimers, maintaining overall health and wellness, including sexual health and mens health, is essential for promoting quality of life.
