ED Medications UK
A complete guide to all erectile dysfunction treatments available in the UK. Compare how they work, how long they last, side effects, and how to access them safely.
4
PDE5 inhibitors available
1
Available OTC
~80%
Success rate
£1-5
Generic per tablet
How ED Medications Work
All four ED medications available in the UK belong to a class called PDE5 inhibitors. They work by:
- Blocking the PDE5 enzyme that normally breaks down a chemical called cGMP
- Allowing cGMP to accumulate, which relaxes blood vessel walls in the penis
- Enabling increased blood flow, making it easier to achieve and maintain an erection
Important: ED medications don't cause automatic erections. Sexual stimulation is still required. They simply make it easier for the natural arousal process to work.
All ED Medications Compared
| Medication | Time to Work | Duration | Food Effect | Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Viagra (Sildenafil) | 30-60 minutes | 4-6 hours | Delayed by fatty foods | 50mg available OTC (Viagra Connect) |
Cialis (Tadalafil) | 30-60 minutes | Up to 36 hours | Minimal effect | Prescription only |
Levitra (Vardenafil) | 25-60 minutes | 4-5 hours | Delayed by fatty foods | Prescription only |
Spedra (Avanafil) | 15-30 minutes | 4-6 hours | Minimal effect | Prescription only |
ED Medications In Detail
Cost: £1-3 (generic) / £15-25 (branded)
Access: 50mg available OTC (Viagra Connect)
Cost: £1-4 (generic) / £20-30 (branded)
Access: Prescription only
Cost: £2-5 (generic) / £15-25 (branded)
Access: Prescription only
Cost: £5-10 per tablet
Access: Prescription only
Common Side Effects
All PDE5 inhibitors share similar side effects because they work in the same way. Common side effects include:
Most Common
- • Headache (most common overall)
- • Facial flushing
- • Indigestion / heartburn
- • Nasal congestion
Medication-Specific
- • Visual changes (more common with Viagra)
- • Back/muscle pain (more common with Cialis)
- • Dizziness
- • Erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism)
- • Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes
- • Sudden hearing loss or ringing in ears
- • Chest pain during or after sexual activity
- • Severe dizziness or fainting
Who Should Not Take ED Medications
ED medications are not suitable for everyone. Key contraindications that apply to all PDE5 inhibitors:
- Taking nitrates: For angina/chest pain (GTN spray, isosorbide). Can cause dangerous blood pressure drops.
- Recent heart attack or stroke: Within the last 6 months
- Severe heart conditions: Unstable angina, severe heart failure, uncontrolled arrhythmias
- Very low blood pressure: Below 90/50 mmHg
- Certain eye conditions: Including previous NAION (non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy)
How to Get ED Medications Safely in the UK
Only Viagra Connect (sildenafil 50mg) is available this way:
- High street pharmacies (Boots, Lloyds, etc.)
- Online pharmacies with pharmacist consultation
- Must complete health questionnaire
For all other ED medications and higher Viagra doses:
- GP (may prescribe on NHS in some cases)
- Online doctor services (CQC registered)
- Private clinics
Counterfeit ED medications are extremely common online. Always verify:
- UK pharmacy is registered with the GPhC
- Website displays the EU common logo (click to verify)
- A proper consultation is required before dispensing
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Frequently Asked Questions
Detailed Guides
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Erectile dysfunction can be a sign of underlying health conditions including cardiovascular disease. Always consult a healthcare provider before taking ED medication. Never take ED medication with nitrates.
Last updated: December 2025