ED Medications: What Works, What Doesn’t, and How to Choose

When it comes to ED medications, oral drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction by improving blood flow to the penis. Also known as impotence treatments, these are among the most commonly prescribed pills for men over 40, and for good reason—they work fast, reliably, and without surgery. But not all ED meds are the same. Some last longer. Some kick in faster. Some come with different side effects. And some are bundled with other drugs, like duloxetine, to tackle both erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation at once.

You’ll find sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, the original ED pill that started it all in many forms, including generic versions and combo packs like Malegra DXT, a dual-action medication combining sildenafil with duloxetine to address both erection issues and early ejaculation. Then there’s tadalafil, the long-lasting option found in Cialis and Cialis Professional, which can work for up to 36 hours. These aren’t just brand names—they’re different tools for different needs. If you’re dating or planning ahead, tadalafil gives you flexibility. If you want something quick and cheap, sildenafil might be your go-to.

But here’s the thing: ED meds aren’t magic. They don’t fix the root cause—whether it’s low testosterone, diabetes, stress, or poor circulation. They just help you get an erection when you’re sexually stimulated. That’s why some men switch between options, or combine them with lifestyle changes like weight loss, quitting smoking, or better sleep. And yes, some of these pills can interact with heart meds, especially nitrates. That’s why talking to a doctor matters, even if you’re buying online.

Below, you’ll find real comparisons between the most common ED medications—what they do, how they feel, how much they cost, and who they’re best for. No marketing fluff. Just facts pulled from actual user experiences and clinical data. Whether you’re trying sildenafil for the first time, wondering if tadalafil is worth the extra price, or curious about combo pills like Malegra DXT, you’ll find clear, side-by-side breakdowns to help you decide what’s right for you.