Erectile Dysfunction FAQs
- What is erectile dysfunction (ED)?
- How does a man achieve an erection?
- Is impotence the same as erectile dysfunction?
- What causes erectile dysfunction?
- How is erectile dysfunction treated?
- How do drugs like Viagra work?
- Do ED drugs have side effects?
- What are penile implants?
- Isn't surgery a rather drastic measure?
- What if I feel embarrassed to talk about this?
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What is erectile dysfunction (ED)?
Erectile dysfunction (or ED), also called male impotence, describes a man’s inability to achieve and maintain an erection of his penis sufficient for mutually satisfactory sexual intercourse with his partner. By itself, ED is not a disease but more of a signal that something else may be a problem. Erectile dysfunction is a common condition affecting over 50% of men to some degree. Half of men ages 40-70 have experienced this condition to some degree, yet only a small number seek help from their doctors.
Sexual dysfunction can sometimes be caused by disorders such as diabetes, high blood pressure, vascular disease, heart disease, nervous system disorders, and depression as well as an unwanted side effect from some medications. Male sexual dysfunction may be the symptom of such disorders that brings them to the doctor's office in the first place.
Sexual health and function are important in determining a man’s quality of life. As Americans age, disorders such as erectile dysfunction (ED) are becoming increasingly apparent. Because this subject is discussed widely in the media, men and women of all ages are seeking guidance in an effort to improve their relationships and experience satisfying sex lives.
The successful treatment of ED has been shown to improve sexual intimacy and satisfaction, improve sexual aspects of quality of life as well as overall quality of life, and relieve symptoms of depression.
Next: How does a man achieve an erection? »
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Indication
Uroxatral® (alfuzosin HCl 10 mg extended-release tablets) is an alpha1-blocker for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of BPH.
Important Safety Information
Do not take UROXATRAL if you have liver problems or if you are taking antifungal drugs like ketoconazole or itraconazole, or HIV drugs like ritonavir.
UROXATRAL can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, especially when starting treatment. This may lead to fainting, dizziness, and lightheadedness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do any dangerous activity until you know how UROXATRAL will affect you. This is especially important if you already have a problem with low blood pressure or take medicines to treat high blood pressure. There may be an increased risk of low blood pressure and fainting when taking UROXATRAL in combination with blood pressure medication or nitrates, or erectile dysfunction medication.
If considering cataract surgery (clouding of the eyes), tell your eye surgeon that you are currently taking UROXATRAL or have previously been treated with an alpha-blocker.
Before taking UROXATRAL, tell your doctor if you have kidney problems.
Also, tell your doctor if you or any family member(s) have or take medications for a rare heart condition known as congenital prolongation of the QT interval.
BPH and prostate cancer can cause the same symptoms. However, UROXATRAL is not a treatment for prostate cancer.
The most common side effects with UROXATRAL are dizziness, upper respiratory tract infection, headache, and tiredness.
Please see UROXATRAL full prescribing information.
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Erectile Dysfunction FAQs
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What Is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction (ED), also referred to as impotence, is the inability to attain or maintain an erection sufficient for successful sexual activity. Normally, an erection occurs when the arteries carrying blood to the penis widen, allowing more blood to flow in, and the veins carrying blood away from the penis are compressed, restricting blood from flowing out. In other words, more blood flows in and less flows out, making the penis larger and causing an erection. Certain nerves and hormones in the body also play a role in initiating and maintaining an erection. Any abnormality involving these systems, whether due to medication or disease, has a significant effect on the ability to develop and sustain an erection, to ejaculate, and to experience orgasm.
What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?
ED can be caused by any number of physical and psychological factors. In general, ED is classified according to whether it is ca...
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Sexual health and function are important determinants of quality of life.
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