What is the latest treatment for erectile dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects many men at some point in their lives. Thanks to ongoing research, new and effective treatments are emerging. Below is an overview of the latest options—both established and cutting-edge—so you can discuss them with your doctor.

1. What Is Erectile Dysfunction?
   Erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity. It can result from medical conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure), psychological factors (stress, anxiety), lifestyle issues (smoking, obesity) or a combination of these.

2. Established Treatments: Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) Inhibitors
   PDE-5 inhibitors remain first-line therapy for ED. They work by increasing blood flow to the penis.

• Sildenafil (Viagra®)
• Tadalafil (Cialis®)
• Vardenafil (Levitra®)
• Avanafil (Stendra®)

Udenafil (Zydena®) is one of the newer PDE-5 inhibitors, studied in a large trial by Kim et al. (2011). Key points:
• Onset: 30–60 minutes
• Duration: up to 12 hours
• Efficacy: significant improvement in International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scores
• Safety: side effects similar to other PDE-5 inhibitors (headache, flushing)

3. Low-Intensity Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (Li-ESWT)
   Li-ESWT uses sound waves to stimulate blood vessel growth in the penis. A 2018 meta-analysis (Lu et al.) found:
   • Improved erectile function in 60–70% of participants
   • Benefits lasting 6–12 months in many men
   • Minimal discomfort and virtually no serious side effects

Typical protocol:
• 6 sessions over 3–6 weeks
• 1,500–3,000 shocks per session
• No anesthesia required

4. Emerging Regenerative Therapies
   Research is exploring ways to repair or regenerate penile tissue:

• Stem Cell Therapy
– Uses mesenchymal stem cells to promote new blood vessel and nerve growth
– Early trials show promise, but larger studies are needed

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
– Concentrated platelets from your own blood injected into the penis
– May release growth factors that help repair tissue
– Safety appears good; efficacy under investigation

• Gene Therapy
– Aims to deliver genes that boost nitric oxide production (key for erections)
– Still experimental; human trials are limited

5. Lifestyle Modifications and Addressing Underlying Causes
   Often, simple changes can improve or reverse ED:

• Exercise regularly (30 minutes most days)
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Stop smoking and limit alcohol
• Manage stress, anxiety or depression
• Control chronic conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure)

6. Choosing the Right Treatment
   Factors to consider include:
   • Severity and duration of ED
   • Underlying medical issues
   • Personal preference (pill vs. device vs. procedure)
   • Cost and insurance coverage
   • Potential side effects

Many men start with a PDE-5 inhibitor. If that’s not effective or suitable, discussing Li-ESWT or regenerative options with a specialist may be the next step.

7. Next Steps and Resources
   If you’re unsure which option is best for you, consider doing a free, online symptom check for erectile dysfunction to clarify your concerns before talking to a healthcare professional.

8. Speak to a Doctor
   Always consult a qualified doctor before starting or changing any treatment—especially if you have heart disease, take nitrates, or have other serious health issues. If you experience chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or other alarming symptoms, seek emergency care immediately.

By staying informed about the latest treatments—from proven PDE-5 inhibitors like udenafil to innovative approaches such as shockwave therapy and regenerative techniques—you and your doctor can find the best solution for your erectile dysfunction.