The Best Topical Creams for Erectile Dysfunction
Causes of ED range from temporary, manageable triggers to more serious, chronic health conditions. If ED is a chronic issue for you (or even if it’s an occasional problem), it’s worth looking into possible treatments.
| Brand Name | Main Active Ingredient | Price Range | User Ratings | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ErecCream Plus | L-arginine | $20-$40 | 4.5/5 | Online, pharmacies |
| VigorGel | Yohimbine | $15-$35 | 4.2/5 | Online only |
| LibidoBoost | Maca Extract | $10-$25 | 4.0/5 | Stores, online |
| VitalErect | Ginseng Extract | $25-$50 | 4.3/5 | Pharmacies |
| PassionGel | DHEA | $30-$60 | 4.1/5 | Special order |
Untreated erectile dysfunction can lead to self-esteem issues and relationship strain.
- Variability in absorption and response makes some creams less predictable.
- Potency effects from creams may diminish over time without proper use.
- Topical ED treatments can be part of a broader sexual health plan.
- Educate yourself thoroughly on how to apply and store the product.
- Be aware of local laws and regulations regarding ED topical treatments.
So ED treatments aren’t just about sexual performance — they can improve your overall quality of life. If a medical professional thinks PDE5 inhibitors (phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors) — like Viagra, tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra®), and avanafil (Stendra®) — won’t work for you, they may suggest other treatments for erectile dysfunction. There are a few types of erectile dysfunction creams and gels on the market these days, each with a different mechanism. Mostly, though, ED creams and gels work by improving blood flow to the penis, allowing you to get an erection during sexual activity or stimulation. Not all erection creams and gels are made equally. Some have a fair amount of science-backed proof, while others have hardly been studied at all.
- Alprostadil cream is used to increase blood flow for erectile dysfunction.
- Topical creams may provide quick relief without oral side effects.
- This type of cream is usually applied directly to the penile area.
- Prescription creams require proper medical guidance for safe use.
- Efficacy varies among users; some find creams less effective than pills.
So, what is the best erection cream or gel?
- Many topical ED creams are designed to deliver fast results directly to the penis.
- Side effects are mostly local and include burning or itching sensations.
- These creams can sometimes cause a warm sensation upon application.
- Beware of counterfeit or unapproved products on the black market.
- Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any topical ED therapy.
We’ll go over a few options below.
Other Topical Agents: Papaverine, Verapamil, and More
We’ll take a look at how these products work, their benefits, erectile cream side effects, and what else you need to know before trying them. We’ll also cover other proven ED treatments and lifestyle changes that may improve your sexual health. Erectile dysfunction is a common type of sexual dysfunction affecting roughly 30 million men in the United States. Those with ED find it difficult to get and maintain an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. Many guys struggle to get an erection from time to time. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized just one topical ED treatment: Eroxon®.
| Product | Dosage | Quantity + Bonus | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viagra Soft Tabs | 100mg | 10 Pills | 36.93€ 35.17€ | |
| Viagra Generic | 150mg | 60 + 4 Pills | 111.25€ 105.95€ | |
| Levitra Generic | 20mg | 30 + 4 Pills | 70.59€ 67.23€ | |
| Viagra Generic | 150mg | 120 + 8 Pills | 177.58€ 169.12€ | |
| Viagra Super Active | 100mg | 30 + 6 Pills | 64.09€ 61.04€ | |
| Cialis Super Active | 20mg | 20 + 4 Pills | 92.35€ 87.95€ | |
| Cialis Generic | 10mg | 30 + 4 Pills | 63.32€ 60.30€ | |
| Super Kamagra | 160 mg | 92 + 6 Pills | 478.75€ 455.95€ | |
| Kamagra Gold | 50 mg | 360 + 6 Pills | 713.95€ 679.95€ | |
| Viagra Super Active | 100mg | 60 + 8 Pills | 116.84€ 111.28€ | |
| Viagra Generic | 150mg | 360 + 10 Pills | 423.48€ 403.31€ | |
| Cialis Soft Tabs | 20mg | 120 + 6 Pills | 248.64€ 236.80€ | |
| Kamagra Polo | 100 mg | 84 + 4 Pills | 244.49€ 232.85€ | |
| Super Kamagra | 160 mg | 152 + 8 Pills | 729.11€ 694.39€ |
This new-to-market erection gel got the FDA’s go-ahead in 2023, making it one of the only non-prescription erectile dysfunction treatments available in the U.S. Though some news outlets are calling Eroxon “topical Viagra” and “Viagra cream,” these are misnomers. Eroxon doesn’t actually contain sildenafil — or any medication, for that matter.
Erectile Dysfunction Cream
Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. At Cleveland Clinic, we offer specialty care that’s focused on you. We understand that patients often have questions about any new treatments they take. This FAQ is meant to supplement your advice and recommendation, providing further clinical information on the efficacy and safety of Eroxon®. Eroxon® is the first and only FDA-cleared, topical, OTC product to help treat erectile dysfunction (ED).
Why Choose Creams Over Other Treatments?
It’s fast-acting and offers a safe treatment option for both patients and their partners. Below, we’ve provided clear, comprehensive information about how Eroxon® works, its benefits, and how it should be used. Objective: To repeat a previous study on the use of a topical treatment for erectile failure using a vasoactive cream. Patients and methods: Fourteen patients with erectile failure who had previously responded to intracorporeal injection therapy were enrolled in a randomized placebo-controlled trial. They were given two topical applications, comprising either a cream containing aminophylline, isosorbide dinitrate and co-dergocrine mesylate, or a placebo cream of similar appearance containing no pharmacologically active ingredients.
Is there a Viagra gel?
Each patient received 16 applications, eight of the active cream and eight placebo. The creams were applied alternatively on successive occasions and the results recorded. Results: The active cream, applied on 77 occasions, resulted in three good and 13 partial erections. The placebo cream, applied on 76 occasions, yielded four good and 13 partial erections. Conclusions: We were unable to reproduce the successful results reported by others; in the present study the active cream performed no better than placebo. According to the brand’s website, the topical gel works by cooling and warming the penis, stimulating the nerves.
Understanding Erectile Dysfunction
Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Eroxon® is a fast-acting treatment gel for erectile dysfunction (ED) that can be applied immediately before sexual activity and is clinically proven to help you get an erection within 10 minutes. As the first-and-only ED gel, Eroxon® offers men and their partners results without the side effects of oral medicines or the inconvenience of getting a prescription. Clinically proven to work within 10 minutes† No one should be forced to plan ahead to enjoy intimate moments, and today’s treatments make it difficult to connect spontaneously.
Penis sleeve
Now, men and their partners have a fast-acting treatment option for ED: Eroxon® gel. Learn how Eroxon®’s easy-to-apply gel helps men and their partners move seamlessly from date night to pillow talk. ...leading to increased blood flow in the penis to help achieve and maintain an erection. In clinical trials, Eroxon® helped men with ED achieve an erection within 10 minutes. * While it may not work for everyone, studies showed success in over 60% of men.
Most Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about ED and learn about your treatment options. Be ready for sex whenever you're in the mood If you’re tired of swallowing pills or dealing with the side effects of oral erectile dysfunction (ED) medications, there may be another solution that’s simpler and more direct. Topical erectile dysfunction creams and gels are gaining traction as a new way to combat ED. Are these creams and gels really comparable alternatives to established medications like sildenafil (Viagra®) and tadalafil (Cialis®)? If so, what is the best cream for erectile dysfunction? This might increase blood flow, giving your erection a boost. The product leaflet notes that you may need to try Eroxon a few times before it works — although most men experience an erection the first or second time they apply it.
- The safety profile of topical ED creams is generally favorable when used as directed.
- They don't typically interfere with other medications when properly used.
- Some formulations may last longer, providing up to an hour of effectiveness.
- Use of lubricants can improve application and comfort.
- Always discard expired creams and follow disposal guidelines.
The insert also warns that Eroxon is compatible with latex condoms only, so keep that in mind! One well-known topical ED treatment is alprostadil cream, also known by the brand name Vitaros®. Alprostadil is a type of prostaglandin (a natural vasodilator), meaning it helps blood vessels relax. This topical ED cream works by stimulating blood flow, making it easier to get (and maintain) an erection. Vitaros is applied to the head of the penis at the urethral opening (where pee and semen come out), ensuring the cream goes down the urethra.
Rediscover Confidence with Lakeview Pharmacy
Reviewed by Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing Men will soon have a new option for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) that supposedly works faster than regular ED medication — and is available without a prescription. In June, the FDA approved the over-the-counter sale of MED3000 (Eroxon), a topical gel treatment for ED. MED3000 is supplied in single-use tubes. The contents are rubbed onto the head of the penis immediately before sexual intercourse.
Papaverine Gel
The gel contains a combination of volatile solvents which, when applied to the head of the penis, evaporate rapidly, stimulating nerve endings through an initial cooling effect, followed by a warming sensation. This reaction releases nitric oxide, relaxing the smooth muscle tissue inside the penis and increasing blood flow that is needed to obtain an erection. Clinical trials found that 65% of men who used MED3000 achieved an erection within 10 minutes and maintained it long enough to have sex. Common prescription ED drugs like tadalafil (Cialis) and sildenafil (Viagra) take around 30 minutes to work. The common side effects of MED3000 were headaches and nausea, but these occurred in only 1% to 3% of men.
Cock ring and penis pump
No side effects were reported among sexual partners. U.S. prices are not yet available, but in the United Kingdom, where Eroxon is already available over-the-counter, the cost is equivalent to about $32 (U.S.) for a four-pack. Matthew Solan, Former Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board best ed treatments Member, Harvard Health Publishing As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. It should be used five to 30 minutes before attempting intercourse. Research found that alprostadil was significantly more effective than a placebo in patients with ED.
How ED Creams Work: The Science Behind the Solutions
The most common complication includes a prolonged erection that lasts longer than four hours. Without proper treatment, it can cause permanent damage to your penile tissue. The average cost of alprostadil is over $500 for a 5-milliliter (teaspoon size) vial. The cost per dose depends on how much you need to inject, which varies from person to person. The lower the volume that you need to inject, the more doses per vial you’ll get, which makes it cheaper per dose.
Psychological Support and Relationship Benefits
The cost of alprostadil may also depend on: The pharmacy where you pick up your prescription. Alprostadil can help treat erectile dysfunction and improve your sex life. ED can cause a lot of different feelings — frustration, embarrassment, shame and even humiliation. You may even experience these feelings when you seek help from a healthcare provider. But ED is common, and providers are available to help you and make you as comfortable as possible with your questions and concerns.
Sex therapy
Ask a provider if alprostadil is the best treatment for you or if another medication is better. Sign up for our Health Essentials emails for expert guidance on nutrition, fitness, sleep, skin care and more. Learn more about the Health Library and our editorial process. Cleveland Clinic’s health articles are based on evidence-backed information and review by medical professionals to ensure accuracy, reliability and up-to-date clinical standards. Alprostadil (Injectable and Transurethral) ( Updated 8/3/2021. Since alprostadil mostly remains in the genital area and doesn’t spread to the rest of the body, the cream doesn’t seem to interact with other medications.