Best Erectile Dysfunction Treatments Of 2026

Many people experience challenges with achieving or sustaining an erection, and the frequency can vary. Just as aging can impact your vision and skin elasticity, it can also affect your ability to maintain an erection, which is completely normal.

While occasional issues with erections might impact your sex life, they aren't always a cause for concern. Factors like stress can trigger temporary episodes of ED.

However, men generally maintain healthy sexual function well into later life. If erection difficulties become frequent, it may be an indicator of an underlying health condition that should be addressed.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is quite common, with most men experiencing it at some point. Research suggests that around 52% of men between the ages of 40 and 70 may struggle with erection issues, and about 1 in 10 men face it long-term.

“This is a condition that affects many men and can occur at any age for various reasons,” explains urologist Petar Bajic, MD. He emphasizes that ED exists on a spectrum—you may still get erections, but they might be weak or short-lived.

“If you’re troubled by a lack of sufficient rigidity, then you have erectile dysfunction,” Dr. Bajic adds.

Since many of these factors are also associated with blocked arteries (atherosclerosis), ED can be an early warning sign of serious cardiovascular problems like heart attacks or strokes. If you're experiencing ED, it's essential to speak with a healthcare provider to check for other underlying health concerns such as high cholesterol, blood pressure, or blood sugar​.

Depression and other mood disorders can significantly impact a man’s ability to achieve and maintain an erection. In fact, individuals with depression are 40% more likely to experience erectile dysfunction (ED). There's also a reverse relationship, as men with ED are three times more likely to suffer from depression.

This creates a cycle, as noted by Dr. Lundy: men with depression may avoid sexual activity, which further worsens their mental and emotional well-being, reinforcing feelings of inadequacy or low self-esteem. Addressing both conditions is key to breaking this cycle and improving overall health​.

Certain medications are a common cause of erectile dysfunction, with estimates suggesting that prescription drugs are responsible for about one-fourth of all ED cases. These medications can interfere with sexual function by affecting blood flow, hormone levels, or nerve signals. Common medications linked to ED include:

These drugs can alter blood pressure, hormone levels, or nerve responses, contributing to erectile dysfunction. If you're experiencing ED and taking any of these medications, it's a good idea to consult your doctor about alternative treatments​.

According to Dr. Lundy, simply reporting symptoms of erectile dysfunction (ED) is often enough for a diagnosis since ED is largely subjective and based on personal experience. However, doctors still follow a thorough process to assess the condition and identify the underlying causes.

This process typically includes a detailed review of the patient’s medical history, particularly focusing on vascular health, mental health, and substance use. Providers may ask whether the patient experiences morning erections and what treatments, if any, have already been attempted.

Next, a physical exam is conducted, and lab tests may be ordered to screen for related health issues. In more complex cases, advanced tests like a penile Doppler may be performed to evaluate blood flow in and out of the penis​.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be addressed through various treatment methods. Initially, healthcare providers often recommend lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity, reducing smoking, drug use, and alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and managing blood sugar or cholesterol levels.

Dr. Lundy explains that treatment options can be viewed like a staircase, starting with the simplest and safest options and progressing to more advanced treatments as needed.

Dr. Houman and Dr. Lundy encourage those with ED to seek treatment as early as possible. Dr. Houman advises, “The earlier you see a doctor, the better your outcomes.” Dr. Lundy adds that while it may feel awkward, doctors are used to discussing ED, and finding a trustworthy healthcare professional is important.