5. Viagra is the answer to erectile dysfunction

WHO SAYS?

The media: every Viagra story has newspaper editors throbbing with excitement. Drug companies don’t mind erectile dysfunction being medicalised, either.

HOW WRONG IS IT?

Partially. Viagra and similar drugs don’t work for everyone; about 20 per cent of men don’t respond. The magic pills may not be necessary at all.

GIVE ME THE FACTS

Medication for erectile dysfunction has saved many from the sexual doldrums. But the rush to pop pills obscures a few basics. For example, a sudden failure to rise to the occasion, especially in young men, is usually a temporary blip caused by stress or exhaustion. It isn’t a slight on masculinity, it doesn’t signify disease and it will probably right itself. Persistent erectile dysfunction can be a sign of trouble, such as diabetes, circulation problems, or a medication side-effect. If properly treated erectile dysfunction pills may be unnecessary. Besides, what goes on in your pants often reflects what’s going on in your head. So the therapy needed for a lasting cure may be psychological rather than pharmaceutical.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

Stay calm if you suffer a bedroom flop. If it persists, don’t rush into pills – get a proper check from your GP.

LAST WORD

Viagra et al aren’t a penile panacea.

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