Managing Expectations: Realistic Results from ED Creams

Other > creams for erectile dysfunction


Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized just one topical ED treatment: Eroxon®. This new-to-market erection gel got the FDA’s go-ahead in 2023, making it one of the only non-prescription erectile dysfunction treatments available in the U.S. Though some news outlets are calling Eroxon “topical Viagra” and “Viagra cream,” these are misnomers. Eroxon doesn’t actually contain sildenafil — or any medication, for that matter. According to the brand’s website, the topical gel works by cooling and warming the penis, stimulating the nerves.

LinkOut - more resources

In June, the FDA approved the over-the-counter sale of MED3000 (Eroxon), a topical gel treatment for ED. MED3000 is supplied in single-use tubes. The contents are rubbed onto the head of the penis immediately before sexual intercourse. The gel contains a combination of volatile solvents which, when applied to the head of the penis, evaporate rapidly, stimulating nerve endings through an initial cooling effect, followed by a warming sensation. This reaction releases nitric oxide, relaxing the smooth muscle tissue inside the penis and increasing blood flow that is needed to obtain an erection.

Cock ring and penis pump

Clinical trials found that 65% of men who used MED3000 achieved an erection within 10 minutes and maintained it long enough to have sex. Common prescription ED drugs like tadalafil (Cialis) and sildenafil (Viagra) take around 30 minutes to work. The common side effects of MED3000 were headaches and nausea, but these occurred in only 1% to 3% of men. No side effects were reported among sexual partners. U.S.

FDA Warnings

prices are not yet available, but in the United Kingdom, where Eroxon is already available over-the-counter, the cost is equivalent to about $32 (U.S.) for a four-pack. Matthew Solan, Former Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing 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. This might increase blood flow, giving your erection a boost.

  • Creams for ED can provide an alternative for those unable to take pills.
  • Common ingredients include alprostadil, papaverine, or phentolamine.
  • These agents dilate blood vessels to facilitate erection.
  • Side effects can include local burning, redness, or pain.
  • Not suitable for individuals with certain allergies or penile conditions.

The product leaflet notes that you may need to try Eroxon a few times before it works — although most men experience an erection the first or second time they apply it. The insert also warns that Eroxon is compatible with latex condoms only, so keep that in mind! One well-known topical ED treatment is alprostadil cream, also known by the brand name Vitaros®.

  • Topical ED treatments are often used in conjunction with psychological therapy.
  • Discontinued if adverse reactions like blistering or swelling occur.
  • They are sometimes combined with other supportive therapies for better results.
  • Always follow dosing instructions given by healthcare professionals.
  • The onset of action is usually faster than oral medications.

Alprostadil is a type of prostaglandin (a natural vasodilator), meaning it helps blood vessels relax. This topical ED cream works by stimulating blood flow, making it easier to get (and maintain) an erection. Vitaros is applied to the head of the penis at the urethral opening (where pee and semen come out), ensuring the cream goes down the urethra. It should be used five to 30 minutes before attempting intercourse.

User Demographic Preferred Cream Type Satisfaction Level Reasons for Preference Comments
Age 30-40 Natural ingredients 4.5/5 Fewer side effects "Works well with minimal irritation"
Age 50-60 Fast-acting gels 4.2/5 Quick onset, discreet application "Easy to use before intimacy"
Age 20-30 Herbal-based creams 4.3/5 Natural approach, safety concern "Trusted natural ingredients"
General audience Multi-ingredient formulas 4.0/5 Broader efficacy "Love that it enhances confidence"

Research found that alprostadil was significantly more effective than a placebo in patients with ED. Since alprostadil mostly remains in the genital area and doesn’t spread to the rest of the body, the cream doesn’t seem to interact with other medications.

Product Dosage Quantity + Bonus Price
Viagra Original100mg64 + 4 Pills264.15€ 251.57€
Kamagra Polo100mg84 + 4 Pills244.49€ 232.85€
Kamagra Gold50 mg20 Pills73.17€ 69.69€
Viagra Generic25mg20 Pills37.74€ 35.94€
Viagra Professional100mg270 + 6 Pills456.97€ 435.21€
Levitra Professional20mg20 Pills101.00€ 96.19€
Tadalista Super Active20mg20 + 4 Pills92.35€ 87.95€
Viagra Soft Tabs100mg20 Pills62.99€ 59.99€
Viagra Professional100mg360 + 6 Pills527.09€ 501.99€
Kamagra Oral Jelly100 mg220 + 18 Sachets662.24€ 630.70€
Viagra Generic200mg180 + 10 Pills277.56€ 264.34€

With that in mind, it might be a good alternative to PDE5 inhibitors, as it can be safer for folks who use nitrates, alpha-blockers, and blood pressure medication.

  • Proper cleaning and hygiene are important before applying ED creams.
  • Use only the amount recommended by your healthcare provider.
  • ED creams are sometimes combined with oral PDE5 inhibitors for better results.
  • Penile skin sensitivity may increase with repeated use; monitor any changes.
  • The goal is to enhance natural blood flow and improve erectile reliability.

A 2017 study of men with type 2 diabetes and ED suggests that alprostadil cream may be an effective alternative for those who can’t (or prefer not to) take ED pills or who haven’t seen good results from standard ED medications.

How Eroxon® works

Erectile dysfunction is a common type of sexual dysfunction affecting roughly 30 million men in the United States. Those with ED find it difficult to get and maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Many guys struggle to get an erection from time to time. Causes of ED range from temporary, manageable triggers to more serious, chronic health conditions. If ED is a chronic issue for you (or even if it’s an occasional problem), it’s worth looking into possible treatments.

Topical Alprostadil Cream

Untreated erectile dysfunction can lead to self-esteem issues and relationship strain. So ED treatments aren’t just about sexual performance — they can improve your overall quality of life. If a medical professional thinks PDE5 inhibitors (phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors) — like Viagra, tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra®), and avanafil (Stendra®) — won’t work for you, they may suggest other treatments for erectile dysfunction. There are a few types of erectile dysfunction creams buy cenforce 120mg and gels on the market these days, each with a different mechanism. Mostly, though, ED creams and gels work by improving blood flow to the penis, allowing you to get an erection during sexual activity or stimulation.

Availability Through Trusted Providers

Not all erection creams and gels are made equally. Some have a fair amount of science-backed proof, while others have hardly been studied at all. So, what is the best erection cream or gel? We’ll go over a few options below. The U.S. There’s just one problem: Alprostadil cream isn’t FDA-approved, and for that reason, you can’t buy it in the U.S. At least, not yet.

  • Use of ED creams is not recommended in case of penile infections or dermatological issues.
  • Ensure accurate dosing to avoid priapism, a prolonged erection.
  • Topical ED therapies are especially useful for men with contraindications to oral meds.
  • Careful storage and handling optimize the product’s shelf life.
  • Combining therapies under medical supervision can yield better outcomes.

However, the FDA has approved Caverject®, an alprostadil-based injection for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. SST-6006 is a topical cream containing sildenafil. Though some studies have looked into the possibility of using sildenafil gel or cream, it’s not commercially available yet.

Side Effects and Safety Profile of Topical ED Creams

Eroxon® is a fast-acting treatment gel for erectile dysfunction (ED) that can be applied immediately before sexual activity and is clinically proven to help you get an erection within 10 minutes. As the first-and-only ED gel, Eroxon® offers men and their partners results without the side effects of oral medicines or the inconvenience of getting cost of vardenafil a prescription. Clinically proven to work within 10 minutes† No one should be forced to plan ahead to enjoy intimate moments, and today’s treatments make it difficult to connect spontaneously. Now, men and their partners have a fast-acting treatment option for ED: Eroxon® gel. Learn how Eroxon®’s easy-to-apply gel helps men and their partners move seamlessly from date night to pillow talk.

Consulting a Healthcare Professional

...leading to increased blood flow in the penis to help achieve and maintain an erection. In clinical trials, Eroxon® helped men with ED achieve an erection within 10 minutes. * While it may not work for everyone, studies showed success in over 60% of men. Get answers to common questions about ED and learn about your treatment options. Be ready for sex whenever you're in the mood If you’re tired of swallowing pills or dealing with the side effects of oral erectile dysfunction (ED) medications, there may be another solution that’s simpler and more direct.

Weight loss

Topical erectile dysfunction creams and gels are gaining traction as a new way to combat ED. Are these creams and gels really comparable alternatives to established medications like sildenafil (Viagra®) and tadalafil (Cialis®)? If so, what is the best cream for erectile dysfunction? We’ll take a look at how these products work, their benefits, erectile cream side effects, and what else you need to know before trying them. We’ll also cover other proven ED treatments and lifestyle changes that may improve your sexual health. A company called Strategic Science & Technologies LLC announced it had completed a phase 2A clinical trial of an SST-6006 product in 2017 and currently says it’s “actively engaged in partner discussions.” So for now, sildenafil gel isn’t yet a thing — but that might change in the future. If you’ve looked for supplements for erectile dysfunction, you’ve probably come across l-arginine. Many believe l-arginine can improve erectile function and sexual performance. This supplement is available in stores and online. L-arginine is linked to nitric oxide production.

Is Eroxon® right for you?

We understand that patients often have questions about any new treatments they take. This FAQ is meant to supplement your advice and recommendation, providing further clinical information on the efficacy and safety of Eroxon®. Eroxon® is the first and only FDA-cleared, topical, OTC product to help treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It’s fast-acting and offers a safe treatment option for both patients and their partners. Below, we’ve provided clear, comprehensive information about how Eroxon® works, its benefits, and how it should be used.

Application Tips for Maximum Effectiveness

Objective: To repeat a previous study on the use of a topical treatment for erectile failure using a vasoactive cream. Patients and methods: Fourteen patients with erectile failure who had previously responded to intracorporeal injection therapy were enrolled in a randomized placebo-controlled trial. They were given two topical applications, comprising either a cream containing aminophylline, isosorbide dinitrate and co-dergocrine mesylate, or a placebo cream of similar appearance containing no pharmacologically active ingredients. Each patient received 16 applications, eight of the active cream and eight placebo. The creams were applied alternatively on successive occasions and the results recorded.

Change of medication

Results: The active cream, applied on 77 occasions, resulted in three good and 13 partial erections. The placebo cream, applied on 76 occasions, yielded four good and 13 partial erections. Conclusions: We were unable to reproduce the successful results reported by others; in the present study the active cream performed no better than placebo. Reviewed by Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing Men will soon have a new option for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) that supposedly works faster than regular ED medication — and is available without a prescription. Indeed, nitric oxide plays a critical role in erectile function because it helps blood vessels relax, thus improving blood flow to the penis.