What is the treatment for erectile dysfunction?

Condition analysis:
The treatment for erectile dysfunction depends on what is causing it. After your doctor checks you for medical problems and medicines that might cause ED, he or she may recommend a medicine to help with it. Sildenafil (brand name: Viagra), tadalfil (brand name: Cialis), and vardenafil (brand name: Levitra) are medicines that are taken by mouth that help maintain an erection.

Not everyone can use these medicines. Your doctor may talk to you about alprostadil if oral medicines aren’t an option for you. Alprostadil is a synthetic version of prostaglandin E. It can be injected into the penis or inserted as a tiny suppository into the urethra (the hole at the end of the penis). Your doctor will help you decide which treatment is best for you.

Instructions:
Lifestyle changes: Erectile dysfunction can often be improved by making changes to your lifestyle, such as:

-- losing weight if you are overweight  
-- giving up smoking
-- cutting back your alcohol consumption
-- not taking illegal drugs
-- exercising regularly
-- reducing stress

As well as helping to improve your erectile dysfunction, these changes can also improve your general health and may help to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease (conditions that affect your heart and blood vessels).