Is Viagra® still ‘the one and only’?!

Viagra^®‘s journey from serendipitous discovery to blockbuster treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED) is written in lore. The ‘little blue pill’ as it’s affectionately known has become one of the most recognisable and reputable treatments developed, with legions of men having benefitted from its effectiveness. Yet despite its illustrious track record, should Viagra^® still be considered ‘the one and only’? Developed nearly 30 years ago, a lot has changed in that time including our understanding of what causes ED and the various ways we can help minimise its impact. So let’s look at the alternatives.

Changing lifestyle
Actually, this shouldn’t be seen as an alternative to Viagra^® or any other proven treatment. More like a necessary companion. You see,  ED is often a symptom of an underlying health condition like high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes so making positive lifestyle changes should be on the cards irrespective of whether you’re also taking a treatment like Viagra®. Depending on the advice of your doctor or pharmacist, here’s key areas you could work on…

1. Exercise: Regular physical activity like walking, jogging or swimming can improve blood flow and cardiovascular health, something crucial for healthy erectile function. Kegel or pelvic exercises may be effective in addressing ED as they strengthen the muscles in the pelvic floor, increasing blood flow to the penis.¹
2. Weight Management: Obesity is linked to ED due to reduced blood flow and hormonal imbalances.² If you could do with losing some weight, a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins might help.
3. Smoking & Alcohol Consumption: Both smoking and excessive alcohol intake can contribute to ED by damaging blood vessels and affecting hormone levels.^3,4  If you can cut back on smoking and alcohol consumption, you may help improve your symptoms.

Natural supplements
Ok, so there are some who believe natural supplements and herbal ingredients, like ginseng or horny goat weed (no pun intended) can help resolve ED, however the bottom line is, there are no clinically robust, conclusive studies that support their efficacy.⁵  Our advice is this – ED is not a health issue you need to take a ‘wait and see’ approach with as there may be an underlying medical condition that you should get checked out. Clinically proven treatments like Viagra^® have excellent efficacy profiles and there’s something to be said about that.

Acupuncture
The traditional practice of inserting thin needles into specific points on the body in the hope of treating ED is another path that some have taken. Unfortunately, acupuncture suffers from a lack of data in the ED department so more research is needed.

All in the head
While less common, ED can have psychological causes such as stress, anxiety, or depression⁴ . Counselling or therapy may help address these underlying issues.

Other clinically proven treatments.
There are various clinically proven treatments besides Viagra^® that you can go for. Some work the same way, others a little differently. Some last longer, others shorter. Either way, it really comes down to what your doctor or pharmacist thinks is right for you. Organise a check-up at the clinic or pharmacy, you’ll be asked a few questions about your health plus get a blood pressure check and then you’ll know the best way forward.  So should Viagra® still be considered ‘the one and only’? Well, it’s certainly earned its place as a proven treatment over many years. And what’s more Viagra® is now more affordable compared to previous pricing so there’s never been a better time to ask your doctor or pharmacist if the original ‘little blue pill’ is right for you.

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