ED Treatment Options Compared: Medications, Online Providers, Costs & Safety

Erectile dysfunction affects millions of men and is often treatable. Treatment options include lifestyle changes, counseling, and prescription medications. A licensed healthcare provider can help determine the right approach for you.

This page compares licensed telehealth providers. A clinical evaluation is required before any prescription.

Top Pick: MyDrHank

Get an Online ED Evaluation

  • Generic ED meds from $1.67/use — up to 95% less than brand-name
  • Free consultation with a licensed provider, no insurance needed
  • Fast, discreet shipping — extra-strength dissolvables work in 15–30 min
Start Online Visit See full comparison ↓
How this page works: Rx.com independently compares licensed telehealth providers offering ED treatment. We link out to each provider so you can evaluate options and choose what's right for you. Some links are affiliate links — this does not affect which providers we include.

Online ED Provider Comparison

Providers may differ in medication options, evaluation process, pricing structure, and ongoing support. All require a licensed clinician evaluation before prescribing.
Provider Best For Medications
Hims Brand-name experience with chewable options from $30/mo Sildenafil Chews, Tadalafil Chews, 3-in-1 Hard Mints, 3-in-1 Pill View
PeterMD Price match guarantee Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Mt Everest Formula View

Hims

Best ForBrand-name experience with chewable options from $30/mo
MedicationsSildenafil Chews, Tadalafil Chews, 3-in-1 Hard Mints, 3-in-1 Pill
View Treatment Options

PeterMD

Best ForPrice match guarantee
MedicationsSildenafil, Tadalafil, Mt Everest Formula
View Treatment Options

Track local pharmacy prices: RX Watch monitors cash prices at pharmacies in your ZIP code and alerts you when prices drop. Free to use.

Provider Details

Hims Brand-name experience with chewable options from $30/mo

Well-known men's health brand offering a range of ED medications in discreet, easy-to-take formats — including chewables and combo pills. No awkward pharmacy trips.

  • Sildenafil & tadalafil chews starting at $30/mo
  • 3-in-1 Hard Mints — mint-flavored, works fast
  • 3-in-1 Pill starting at $39/mo
  • As-needed and daily options available
  • Licensed provider consultation included
  • Discreet packaging and delivery
Sildenafil Chews, Tadalafil Chews, 3-in-1 Hard Mints, 3-in-1 Pill
View Treatment Options
PeterMD Price match guarantee

Men's health clinic with a price match guarantee. Offers generic Viagra and Cialis at $5/tablet, plus their exclusive Mt Everest formula for enhanced results.

  • Generic sildenafil & tadalafil at $5/tablet
  • Mt Everest exclusive formula available
  • 20% off if you find a better price
  • Discreet shipping in plain packaging
  • Highly rated by reviewers
Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Mt Everest Formula
View Treatment Options

Last reviewed: June 8, 2026

What Is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the persistent difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual activity. It's a common condition that becomes more prevalent with age, though it can affect men at any stage of life.

Common Contributing Factors

Important: ED can sometimes be an early sign of underlying health conditions like heart disease or diabetes. Speaking with a healthcare provider can help identify any contributing factors.

First-Line ED Medications

The most commonly prescribed ED medications belong to a class called PDE5 inhibitors. These medications work by increasing blood flow when sexually aroused. They require a prescription and are not appropriate for everyone.

Sildenafil vs. Tadalafil

The two most widely used ED medications are sildenafil (generic Viagra) and tadalafil (generic Cialis). Here's how they compare:

Factor Sildenafil Tadalafil
Brand Name Viagra Cialis
Onset 30-60 minutes 30-60 minutes
Duration 4-6 hours Up to 36 hours
Dosing As-needed only As-needed or daily
Food Interaction High-fat meals may delay effect Less affected by food
Best For Planned intimacy Spontaneity or daily use

Sildenafil (Viagra)

Onset30-60 minutes
Duration4-6 hours
DosingAs-needed only
FoodHigh-fat may delay
Best ForPlanned intimacy

Tadalafil (Cialis)

Onset30-60 minutes
DurationUp to 36 hours
DosingAs-needed or daily
FoodLess affected
Best ForSpontaneity/daily use

Other Options

Other PDE5 inhibitors include vardenafil (Levitra) and avanafil (Stendra), which may work faster or have different side effect profiles. Your clinician can help determine which option is appropriate based on your health history.

Critical Safety Note: PDE5 inhibitors should never be taken with nitrates (like nitroglycerin for chest pain) as this combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Always disclose all medications to your provider.

Ways to Save on ED Medication

ED medication prices vary significantly based on pharmacy, insurance coverage, dosage, and whether you choose brand-name or generic versions. Generic options are typically much more affordable than brand-name.

Ways People Save

Track prices in your area: RX Watch lets you monitor cash prices at pharmacies in your ZIP code and get alerts when prices drop.

How to Choose an Online ED Provider

Many telehealth services now offer ED consultations and prescriptions. When evaluating providers, consider these factors:

Red flags to avoid: Services that guarantee approval without evaluation, offer prescriptions without a licensed provider, or sell medications from outside the U.S.

Performance Anxiety & Mental Health

ED isn't always physical. Psychological factors like stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns can contribute significantly to erectile difficulties—especially in younger men.

Signs That Psychological Factors May Be Involved

If psychological factors are contributing, treatment may include counseling, sex therapy, stress management, or a combination approach. Many telehealth providers can help identify whether additional support would be beneficial.

ED can affect self-esteem and relationships. It's a medical condition—not a personal failure. Speaking openly with a partner and healthcare provider can help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes erectile dysfunction?

ED can result from physical factors (cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, hormonal changes), psychological factors (stress, anxiety, depression), lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol, lack of exercise), or medications. Often, multiple factors contribute.

Is ED treatable?

Yes, ED is often treatable. Depending on the cause, treatment options include lifestyle changes, oral medications, counseling, hormone therapy, or other interventions. A healthcare provider can help determine the best approach.

What's the difference between sildenafil and tadalafil?

Both are PDE5 inhibitors that help with ED. Sildenafil (Viagra) works for 4-6 hours and is taken as-needed. Tadalafil (Cialis) can last up to 36 hours and can be taken daily or as-needed, offering more spontaneity.

Do I need a prescription for ED medication?

Yes. Legitimate ED medications like sildenafil and tadalafil require a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider who has evaluated your health history. Avoid any service offering these medications without proper evaluation.

Is online ED treatment safe?

Online ED treatment through reputable telehealth services can be safe and effective when they involve evaluation by a licensed provider and fulfillment through legitimate pharmacies. Always verify the service is properly licensed.

What medications should I avoid with ED pills?

PDE5 inhibitors should never be combined with nitrates (like nitroglycerin) as this can cause dangerous blood pressure drops. They should also be used cautiously with alpha-blockers and certain other medications. Always disclose all medications to your provider.

Can I use a discount card for ED medication?

Yes. Pharmacy discount cards like the Rx.com card can reduce the cash price of generic ED medications at participating pharmacies. This can be especially helpful for those without insurance coverage for ED medications.

Can stress or anxiety cause ED?

Yes. Psychological factors including stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns can cause or worsen ED. This is especially common in younger men. Treatment may include counseling alongside or instead of medication.

How does RX Watch help with ED medication costs?

RX Watch monitors pharmacy prices in your ZIP code and sends alerts when prices drop. This helps you find the best price on generic ED medications near you, potentially saving money compared to filling at a single pharmacy.

Important Safety Information

Rx.com does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information on this page is for educational purposes only and should not replace consultation with a healthcare provider.

ED medications require a prescription and are only appropriate after evaluation by a licensed clinician. Not everyone is a candidate for ED medication.

Seek emergency care immediately if you experience chest pain, an erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism), sudden vision or hearing changes, or signs of an allergic reaction.

Prices, availability, and provider offerings may change. Information was last reviewed June 8, 2026.