The Independent Pharmacy

The Best Cream For Erectile Dysfunction

Daniel Hurley
Daniel Hurley
MPharm IP GPhC 2078790
Pharmacist Independent Prescriber

Getting and keeping erections can be difficult for many men, especially those aged 40 and over. If oral medications aren’t for you, creams are another option worth looking into.

So, what is the best cream for erectile dysfunction? One of the most popular options is Vitaros.

Vitaros has a key ingredient called alprostadil and it comes in a special tube that helps you apply it. Just squeeze out the recommended amount and gently rub it on the tip of your penis 5-30 minutes before sexual intercourse. The ingredient alprostadil helps more blood get to the penis, which makes it easier to get an erection.

Creams can work faster than pills but may temporarily cause some irritation. Mild reactions are common at first.

Meeting with your doctor to talk about ED treatments that are right for you is a brave and crucial step towards feeling better. Improving lifestyle habits - such as diet, sleep and exercise - also supports healthy erections.

Key Takeaway 1

Vitaros is a topical erectile dysfunction (ED) cream containing alprostadil.

Key Takeaway 2

Applied 5-30 minutes before sexual activity, it provides faster results than pills, lasting up to 1-2 hours.

Key Takeaway 3

Good alternative for men who cannot or prefer not to use oral ED medications.

Go To ED Consultation

Benefits of Using ED Creams

Topical creams offer certain advantages over other ED treatments:

What Is Vitaros Cream?

Vitaros cream contains alprostadil as the active ingredient. Alprostadil is a substance that makes the blood vessels and muscles in the penis relax. This increases blood flow and allows the erectile tissue to fill with blood, causing an erection.

Vitaros may be a good option for men who haven’t had success with oral ED medications. It also suits those looking to avoid pills due to the associated side effects and men with pre-existing conditions like heart problems.

Research shows that Vitaros works well in helping men get erections strong enough for sex. Mostly, the side effects are minor and localised. For example, you may experience some pain or irritation on the penis after applying the cream. Proper use of Vitaros cream helps minimise adverse effects.

Vitaros cream is a prescription-only medication. So, you’ll need to speak to your doctor, or get in touch with our expert team, before you can try it.

How to Use Vitaros Cream

Application Process

Follow these steps when applying Vitaros:

The proper application helps Vitaros work effectively. Follow your doctor's instructions for best results. Let them know if you have any issues using the cream.

What to Expect After Application

After applying Vitaros cream to the penis, most men can attain an erection firm enough for sex within 5-30 minutes. For some, it may take up to an hour to experience the full effect. The erection can be maintained for 1-2 hours in most cases.

You may feel a warming or tingling sensation initially - this is normal. Mild burning or pain can also occur, especially during the first few applications as the skin adjusts. These side effects often resolve within 1-2 hours.

If you notice the reactions are not going away or are becoming more severe, please reach out to your doctor. They're there to support you through this and help you find a solution.

Seek immediate medical care for priapism - an erection lasting over four hours. This rare condition requires prompt treatment to prevent permanent damage.

Vitaros Cream

Vitaros Cream

Vitaros cream is an easy-to-apply, fast-acting topical treatment for erectile dysfunction in men. It is a great option for treating ED where tablets such as Viagra or Cialis have not been effective or are not a desirable solution.

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Side Effects and Precautions

Common Side Effects

If you’re looking for an effective alternative to ED pills, Vitaros is a good choice. Like all medications, the cream can have some side effects. In most cases, these are mild and will pass quickly. Occasionally, side effects may need medical attention, so it’s good to know what’s normal and when to contact a doctor.

The most commonly reported side effects of Vitaros cream are mild penile pain and a burning or stinging sensation on the penis. Both of these side effects normally pass quickly and you’ll probably notice them less as your skin adjusts to the medication. Applying ice to the penis before using Vitaros cream can help keep any discomfort or pain to a minimum.

Other side effects of Vitaros cream include:

If you’re concerned about any of the side effects you experience when using Vitaros cream, contact your doctor or speak to a pharmacist.

Safety Precautions and Contraindications

While most men can use Vitaros cream without a problem, there are some pre-existing conditions that can make side effects more likely. If you have:

you should use caution when using Vitaros or seek an alternative ED treatment.

Make sure you tell your doctor about all of the medications you take prior to using Vitaros. This will allow them to identify any potential drug interactions and ensure you’re using the most appropriate ED treatment.

Always use a condom when you have sex to prevent the cream being transferred to your partner. Wait at least five minutes after application before you begin sexual activity.

How Does Vitaros Compare to Viagra?

If you’re looking for an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction, you may well be comparing Vitaros, the best erection cream on the market, with Viagra. Arguably the best known ED medication, Viagra comes in tablet form and is taken orally 30-60 minutes before you plan to have sex.

To help you decide which medication is right for you, we’ve put together a quick comparison.

ViagraVitarosApplicationOral tabletTopical creamOnset30-60 minutes5-30 minutesDuration4-6 hours1-2 hoursEffectivenessEffective in 62-82% of men with ED.Effective in up to 83% of men with ED.Frequency of useMaximum of once per 24-hour periodMaximum of 2-3 times per week, no more than once per 24-hour period

ViagraVitaros
ApplicationOral tabletTopical cream
Onset30-60 minutes5-30 minutes
Duration4-6 hours 1-2 hours
EffectivenessEffective in 62-82% of men with EDEffective in up to 83% of men with ED
Frequency of useMaximum of once per 24-hour periodMaximum of 2-3 times per week, no more than once per 24-hour period

Take the Next Step with The Independent Pharmacy

So, does erection cream work? In most cases, yes. The majority of men who use Vitaros see improvements in their erections, making it a good option for those experiencing erectile dysfunction.

If you’re one of the 4.3 million men with ED in the UK, finding an effective treatment will help you to maintain a full and active sex life. This often requires a personalised approach tailored to your unique health situation.

The Independent Pharmacy makes it easy to get started quickly and discreetly through an online ED consultation. Just answer some questions about your medical history and ED symptoms.

Our experienced clinical team will then review your information and provide bespoke advice on suitable treatment options. This may include prescription creams like Vitaros if appropriate for you.

Buy Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Treatments Safely and Securely

Take the first steps to treat your Erectile Dysfunction today. Once you've completed your free online consultation, you could receive your medication as soon as the next working day.

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Sources:

Ashish Jain; Omar A. Iqbal. (2023). Alprostadil - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542217/

Ignacio Moncada, MD, and Béatrice Cuzin (2015). Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Vitaros©/Virirec© (Alprostadil Cream) for the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction - https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.5301/uro.5000116

Patient Information Leaflet: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.13937.pdf

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Daniel Hurley

Authored by

Daniel Hurley
Daniel Hurley
MPharm IP
2078790
Pharmacist Independent Prescriber

Dan is an experienced pharmacist having spent time working in both primary and secondary care. He currently supports our clinical team by providing robust clinical governance review of our internal processes and information.

Andy Boysan

Reviewed by

Andy Boysan
Andy Boysan
BPharm
2047716
Director & Superintendent Pharmacist

Andy is a co-founder and the Superintendent Pharmacist and Director at The Independent Pharmacy.