Erectile Dysfunction Creams: What's The Word?
When most people think of erectile dysfunction (ED) treatments, Viagra® may come to mind. However, those iconic little blue pills are no longer the only treatment option for ED. In fact, topical erectile dysfunction creams and gels are starting to gain popularity.
But what is erection cream or gel? And do ED creams and gels work?
Erectile dysfunction is a common type of sexual dysfunction affecting roughly 30 million men in the United States. Men 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 — and it’s not always cause for alarm. But if ED is a chronic issue, and if it’s bothering you, it’s worth looking into possible treatments.
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.
When looking into possible treatments, you might come across ED creams and gels. But before you fork out cash for that “male-enhancing” cream, it’s important to learn about your options.
We’ll go over everything you need to know about topical ED creams and gels.
What Are ED Creams?
If a medical professional thinks PDE5 inhibitor medications like Viagra — or others, like tadalafil (Cialis®), vardenafil (Levitra®) and avanafil (Stendra®) — won’t work for you, they can suggest other treatments for erectile dysfunction.
One alternative? Erectile dysfunction cream or erectile dysfunction gel.
There are a few types of erectile dysfunction creams and gels, 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.
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 cream or gel for erectile dysfunction? We’ll go over a few options below.
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FDA-Authorized Eroxon Gel
The U.S. 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.
While some news outlets are calling Eroxon “topical Viagra,” this is kind of a misnomer, as it 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. This might boost blood flow, improving your erection.
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 only compatible with latex condoms, so keep that in mind!
Vitaros, the Topical ED Cream
One well-known topical ED treatment is alprostadil cream, also known by the brand name Vitaros®. Alprostadil is a type of prostaglandin (a natural vasodilator), meaning it helps blood vessels relax.
Alprostadil works by stimulating blood flow, making it easier to get (and maintain) an erection. Vitaros is applied into the opening of the penis, making sure the cream goes down the urethra. It should be used five to 30 minutes before attempting intercourse.
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. 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.
There’s just one problem: Alprostadil cream hasn’t been approved by the FDA, and for that reason, you can’t buy it in the U.S. At least, not yet.
However, the FDA has approved Caverject®, an alprostadil-based injection for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
SST-6006, a Topical Sildenafil Cream
SST-6006 is a topical cream containing sildenafil — the same active ingredient that helps Viagra do its thing.
Though some studies have looked into the possibility of using sildenafil gel or cream, it’s not commercially available yet.
A company called Strategic Science & Technologies LLC announced it had completed a phase 2aI study of an SST-6006 in 2017 and currently says they are “actively engaged in partner discussions
So for now, sildenafil gel isn’t yet a thing — but that might change in the future.
L-Arginine “Male Enhancement” Creams
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. Indeed, nitric oxide plays a critical role in erectile function because it helps blood vessels relax, thus improving blood flow.
Research on l-Arginine creams, however, is basically non-existent.
Bark and Seed Extract Creams
Other supposed ED creams contain natural ingredients like ginkgo biloba leaf, tree bark extract and cuscuta seed.
Many assume these products are safe because they’re “natural.” But we’d like to point out that poison ivy is also natural — and you’d probably never put it on your penis.
Since these herbal remedies are supplements, they aren’t regulated or tested by the FDA in the same way that medications are. Besides the fact that they may not actually work, the FDA warns that many so-called “sexual enhancement” treatments contain dodgy ingredients and potentially harmful contaminants.
When it comes to your health, you’re wise to stick to safe, regulated treatment that are proven to be effective.
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Traditional Pill
SildenafilGeneric Viagra®
From £2.36/use
The most commonly prescribed ED treatment, contains the same active ingredient as Viagra® but is 80% more affordable than the brand name.
Traditional Pill
Daily TadalafilDaily Generic Cialis®
From £21/month
A clinically proven treatment for erectile dysfunction that helps men achieve and maintain erections more easily. It gives you the freedom to enjoy spontaneous sex without needing to plan ahead.
Traditional Pill
As-Needed TadalafilGeneric Cialis®
From £2.36/use
The unbranded, more affordable generic form of Cialis® taken as needed. It is clinically proven to help men get and keep harder erections for up to 36 hours.
Traditional Pill
Viagra Connect®
From £5.83/use
The over-the-counter branded version of sildenafil. Viagra Connect® improves blood flow to the penis, helping you achieve and maintain strong and satisfying erections.
Important safety information for Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Tadalafil Daily or Viagra Connect.
Erectile Cream Side Effects
As with most treatments, erection creams and gels may have side effects and safety considerations. For instance, you might experience allergic reactions to the ingredients.
Another common side effect is skin irritation. The skin on and around your genitals may tingle or burn. This can affect your partner, too, who may experience anal or vaginal burning. Be sure to check if your partner has any allergies before using an ED cream or gel with them.
There’s also a possibility of priapism — when an erection lasts more than four hours. Priapism is often painful, and it requires urgent medical treatment.
Beyond potential side effects, the product just may not work for you. If erectile cream or gel isn’t giving you results, even after a few attempts, consider speaking with a healthcare provider about other options.
Interactions and Risk Factors for ED Creams
You shouldn’t use alprostadil cream if you have certain conditions, including:
Allergy to alprostadil
Leukemia
Multiple myeloma
Peyronie’s disease (and other deformities of the penis)
Polycythemia vera
Sickle cell disease
Thrombocythemia
You should also avoid Eroxon if you have the following conditions:
Allergy to any of the ingredients
Peyronie’s disease or other deformities of the penis
Sore, damaged or irritated skin on the penis
If you have a condition that makes it risky to use erectile dysfunction creams, consult a medical professional about alternative treatments.
You might even benefit from a few natural ways to protect erectile function. Certain lifestyle changes can improve your erections and overall sexual health.
Alternatives to ED Creams
Very few ED creams and gels are backed by research, and only one has been authorized by the FDA in the United States. That said, there are quite a few alternatives to ED creams and gels.
Common erectile dysfunction treatments include:
Sildenafil (generic for Viagra)
Avanafil (sold as Stendra)
Our hard mints chewable ED meds
While erectile dysfunction can be caused by physical ailments like cardiovascular disease, psychological factors may also come into play. Your ED could be due to mental health issues like anxiety, depression or sexual performance anxiety.
If you’re experiencing psychological ED, consider in-person or online therapy. Seeking treatment for mental health can lead to better erectile function while helping you feel better overall.
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The Final Word on ED Creams
While erectile dysfunction creams and gels may seem great in theory, few are available for purchase. Fortunately, though, there are many other ED treatments.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
The only FDA-authorized ED gel is Eroxon. Eroxon is available without a prescription and works by cooling and heating the penis, stimulating the nerves.
Beware of dodgy ED treatments. Many “natural” products are marketed for improving erectile function and enhancing sexual performance — but there’s very little proof they work. Since the FDA doesn’t test or approve these supplements in the same way that they test medications, they may contain harmful ingredients.
There are legit alternatives to erectile dysfunction creams and gels. While very few ED creams and gels are on the market, numerous safe and highly effective erectile dysfunction treatments are available. Therapy can also be helpful if your ED has psychological roots, like anxiety.
Erectile dysfunction can be frustrating to deal with, but it is treatable. Learning more about ED and your treatment options can be a solid first step in figuring it out.
Check out our blog post on the latest ED treatments and our guide on how to get hard.
Need some expert assistance? We’re here to help! Our online platform can connect you with a healthcare professional today.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment or medication.