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When a person needs a boost in the bedroom without the commitment of surgery or the cost of penile pumps, most people turn to male enhancement pills.
But hold on a minute: don’t go around the store and horde these sex pills just yet.
There is no scientific evidence that suggests that these libido-boosting supplements are anything more than sham products.
If a pill promises instant results, consider looking the other way. While some of them do work as advertised, there are plenty of healthier alternatives that can deal with the problem more effectively.
Some of these pills may even be harmful. People with advanced heart disease who take them improperly may be at risk due to sudden blood pressure changes, for instance. The same goes for people with advanced liver and kidney disease.
That begs the question, is there a world where using these pills is even worth it?
We looked at what male enhancement supplements do, the risks they pose, and what other options are available for people looking to spice up their sex life.
What Can Male Enhancement Pills Do?
Penis enhancement pills work to aid in improving sexual performance. The majority of these supplements come with the following benefits:
- increasing penis size
- improving sexual stamina
- improving erectile function
- increasing sexual desire
These products are also often touted to help with weight loss and bodybuilding. Furthermore, these sex pills are often advertised and classified as being an all-natural remedy for dealing with erectile problems.
The mechanisms of a male enhancement supplement work by increasing blood flow to the penis or lengthening the time of an erection.
They also help treat erectile dysfunction, a sexual dysfunction that affects roughly half of men over 40 years old.
While erectile dysfunction is more common in older men, it can affect men of all ages. Patients with erectile dysfunction may also go on to develop a variety of other conditions, including:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Depression
- Atherosclerosis
Patients with erectile dysfunction who have preexisting health conditions should be screened and treated for their primary condition first. In such cases, the male pill would be an insufficient form of treatment since the underlying problem isn’t addressed.
But to get proper treatment, you’ll need to get diagnosed by a medical professional first. Contact a doctor to schedule an ED consultation appointment.
Are Male Enhancement Pills Effective?
There is insufficient evidence to suggest that natural male enhancement pills are effective in treating erectile dysfunction.
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate these male enhancement pills, so their safety and efficacy are not medically backed in any way.
In addition, some male enhancement pills contain ingredients that are not safe or effective for some people.
For example, a study found that ashwagandha, a herb that was traditionally believed to have aphrodisiac properties, actually had no impact on men with psychological ED.
A handful of other natural ingredients may also be found in the widely available male enhancement pills on the market.
While they do come with other physical health benefits, they have not been scientifically proven to increase penis size or improve sexual performance.
Some of these ingredients include:
- Ginseng: Used for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Also regulates blood sugar levels.
- Ginkgo biloba: Used to treat altitude sickness, dementia, and cognitive disorders.
- Yohimbe extract: A Western African supplement that promotes weight loss.
- Black ginger extract: Improves physical endurance and weight loss.
If you are considering taking a male enhancement pill, it is important to talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits.
Risks of Male Enhancement Pills
The FDA issued a warning against using 50 of the so-called “best male enhancement pills” available online in retail brands like Amazon and eBay.
According to them, most male enhancement pills may be potentially dangerous due to the presence of hidden drug ingredients. Following an internal investigation, the FDA has linked 20 out of 25 of these male products with undeclared ingredients such as:
- Sildenafil
- Tadalafil
- Vardenafil
- Sibutramine
- Desmethylsibutramine
- Phenolphthalein
- Fluoxetine
These ingredients are only approved in FDA-approved drugs, which should only be prescribed by a physician after a complete medical assessment.
Ingesting any of these undeclared ingredients may interact with other medications and male supplements that a consumer is taking and may cause serious side effects like:
- Urination problems
- Low blood pressure
- Difficulty having an erection
- Urethra damage
- Penile fractures
Besides that, products with undeclared ingredients violate FDA regulations and federal law and may be subjected to litigation.
The FDA is continuously monitoring these products and will take appropriate action against violators. Consumers are advised to exercise caution when buying male enhancement pills online.
To stay informed, visit the FDA tainted products database for an exhaustive list of products to avoid.
Effective Alternative Treatments to Male Enhancement Pills for Erectile Dysfunction
If you’re looking for an effective alternative treatment for male enhancement pills, consider one of the following options:
1. Erectile Dysfunction Therapy
Instead of taking an unregulated pill or even an ED medication such as Viagra or Cialis, consult with a doctor for an erectile dysfunction (ED) consultation.
A local men’s clinic that specializes in ED can review blood work as well as your unique medical history to diagnose the underlying causes of sexual dysfunction that are inhibiting you from achieving and maintaining an erection.
Having a doctor supervise your diagnosis and recommended treatment plan can also ensure you don’t experience any unwanted side effects.
2. Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a new, non-invasive treatment that has shown promise in treating erectile dysfunction.
This therapy uses sound waves to improve blood flow to the penis and stimulate the growth of new blood vessels.
Some studies have shown that shockwave therapy can be effective in treating erectile dysfunction, despite it being a relatively new treatment option.
3. Testosterone Replacement Therapy
Testosterone replacement therapy is a highly effective treatment for men with low testosterone levels. This therapy can help to improve erectile function, libido, and overall energy levels.
According to studies, TRT can help improve quality of life, decrease total cholesterol, and improve lean body mass.
Contact Cleveland’s Leading Men’s Clinic for an Erectile Dysfunction Consultation
Male enhancement pills are not regulated by the FDA and can have dangerous side effects. If you’re looking for an effective alternative treatment, consider one of the options above.
Interested in a more customized treatment plan that targets the underlying causes of dysfunction?
The medical professionals at Precise Men’s Medical Center in Cleveland specialize in treating conditions that impact men’s health. Our concierge approach positions your unique case at the centerpoint of our focus. We don’t just give you a pill for ED and send you on your way. We treat the underlying issues that led to conditions such as ED, Low Testosterone, and more. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
