The FDA is Targeting Unrelyable Sex Supplements
Due to the widespread nature of erectile dysfunction, there are many companies in the market offering substandard supplements for enhancing sexual function and performance. FDA does keep track of these supplements and gets them removed wherever possible. It has done the same with two specific dietary supplements that are being promoted and sold to men.
Why Have Dietary Supplements Been Banned?
These supplements are being sold under the name of Yilshen or Actra-Ex. Both of these supplements are sold over the internet. They are claimed to be a treatment for erectile dysfunction and, also, for improving sexual performance. However, FDA has discovered that these supplements contain an active ingredient found in prescription drugs generally. The ingredient can end up causing serious complications in the case of some men.
The Chemical Composition of These Supplements
A chemical analysis was performed on these supplements. According to that analysis, Actra-Rx contained sildenafil and that too in a prescription-strength amount. Sildenafil is used primarily as the active ingredient for the drug Viagra which is sold only for prescriptions. FDA has approved the use of this drug in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
The Dangers of Unregulated Sexual Supplements
As per the reports of FDA, it is possible for these supplements to react negatively when used alongside some other prescription drugs. This is mainly due to the sildenafil present in the supplements.
There can be interactions between sildenafil and certain other drugs such as those containing nitrates. Nitrates are often used in heart medications. Some illegal drugs may also contain them. When combined, the effects can be dangerous. The blood pressure can drop down dangerously.
Drugs that contain nitrates are often prescribed to patients suffering from heart disease or high blood pressure. Erectile dysfunction is often one of the side effects of these diseases and many men suffer from both together. If these patients end up taking nitrates and the supplements, they are at a significant risk of side effects that are potentially life-threatening.
Oral Medications for Treating ED
Oral medications represent a much better method for treating ED as compared to these unregulated drugs. These drugs are not too difficult to find as they can be bought online. Some of the different medications available for erectile dysfunction are given below.
- Viagra;
- Cialis;
- Levitra
These oral medications have been thoroughly treated for their safety and effectiveness in treating ED by the regulatory bodies and FDA. As a result, you can certainly benefit from using them. However, you must always consult a doctor before using any of these oral medications.
A doctor can help you find out if you are at risk for developing any side effects. There are a few side effects which can be dangerous. However, they are rare. Of course, the doctor will help you search for an alternative way of treating ED if you are taking nitrates or other drugs that can interact with these oral medications. At the same time, you need a prescription from a doctor in order to purchase these medicines.
Injections for Treating ED
If oral medications are ineffective in treating your erectile dysfunction, the doctor can suggest the use of injections. The medicines used in this method can be effective in certain cases but not all. The good thing about these medications is that you can use them yourself without the help of another person.
The medicines are injected directly into the side of the penis. They can help you achieve instant erections. However, as a method of treating ED, they carry more risks than oral medications. You may end up suffering from an erection that lasts for over 4 hours which is an abnormally long time. That increases the risk of priapism which can cause permanent erectile dysfunction. Additionally, the injections can result in scarring of the penis.
Penile Implants
This method is one of the most effective erectile dysfunction treatments available. It involves the placement of a device into the penile region. Erections can be achieved with the help of the devices. However, this method for treating ED is generally chosen when all the other treatments have failed or have been deemed unsuitable. After all, the implant is permanent.
