Chewable Treatments: How Do They Work, and Are They Right For You?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects millions of men worldwide. For decades, oral medications (often referred to as the 'little blue pill') have been one of the most common treatment options. [1] But recent advancements have introduced a newer, more convenient option: chewable treatments.

If you want to know if chewable medications for ED work and their most common side effects, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore what chewable tablets are, why people are choosing them, and how they work to improve your sexual performance.

Article Summary:

• Erectile dysfunction can be treated with oral medicines, which now include chewable ED medications.
• Chewable medications contain active ingredients that can help you to achieve and maintain an erection, by relaxing your blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the penis.
• The benefits of chewable treatments compared to traditional pills are that they’re more convenient, more discreet, and may work faster than tablets you swallow with water.

What is erectile dysfunction?

When you’re sexually aroused, the systems controlling your brain, hormones and blood flow all work together to release nitric oxide, which tells the blood vessels of your penis to relax. This improves blood flow into the penis and allows the erectile tissue to fill with blood, which helps you to become firm enough for penetrative sex.

If you regularly find that you’re unable to achieve or maintain an erection, you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction. This can be caused by both physical and emotional factors, including hormone changes and stress, or it could be an indicator of an underlying health issue.

The good news is there are plenty of proven treatment options if you decide to use oral medicines, including chewable versions which are becoming increasingly popular.

Why choose chewable ED treatments?

Chewable tablets offer an alternative to traditional tablets or capsules for ED, providing the same active ingredients that help men achieve and maintain an erection in a different format.

Here’s why people are increasingly turning to chewable treatment options:

Easy to swallow

Lots of people, particularly those with certain medical conditions, find it difficult to swallow standard erectile dysfunction pills. Chewable tablets eliminate this issue entirely, allowing the medication to be crunched first just like a mint.

Discreet to use

A chewable tablet isn't swallowed whole like a typical pill, which makes them a more discreet option if you don't want to draw attention to your treatment. They’re also easy to carry, fitting right into your pocket or wallet in discreet packaging, unlike pill packets or bottles.

Better taste

Most chewable tablets for erectile dysfunction are flavoured (such as mint flavour), which can hide the taste of the bitterness you might notice when taking regular pills.

Alternative ingredients

Some people react to certain fillers or preservatives in ED medications. Chewable treatments can be made without these unwanted ingredients to help those with allergies or sensitivities.

How do chewable mints for ED work?

The active ingredients in chewable tablets are the same as those found in traditional ED medications. These drugs work by relaxing blood vessels, which increases blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation. This helps you achieve and maintain an erection when you’re aroused. [2]

It’s important to remember there are also other factors that can support your sexual performance, from the foods you eat to how much you exercise and your lifestyle choices. Improving your overall well-being, reaching an optimum weight and improving your cardiovascular health can help with ED management, alongside medication. [3] That’s why it helps to talk to a medical professional if you’re worried about erectile dysfunction, to discuss your general health and look at the bigger picture before deciding if medication is the right route for you.

Side effects of chewable treatments

Like all medications, there are some potential side effects of the active ingredients used in erectile dysfunction treatments. These include:

• Nasal congestion (runny nose)
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Facial flushing

If you experience any of the following side effects while using an ED medication, seek medical attention immediately:

• Painful erection that lasts for four hours or more (priapism)
• Severe chest pain
• Sudden vision loss

Is chewable ED medication right for you?

There’s no right or wrong here. It’s all down to personal choice, and what will fit best with your lifestyle and health.

Chewable tablets offer a convenient solution for anyone looking for an easy-to-use treatment option for ED. For example, if you struggle with swallowing pills, chewable tablets could be the right fit for you. Consult with your doctor or healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, and any specific needs you have. They’ll be able to advise on the best way forward for you.

Looking to start an ED treatment? There's no need to visit a doctor in person. Try an online consultation and find out what treatment is suitable for you on MedExpress.

References:

1. Feldman HA, Goldstein I, Hatzichristou DG, Krane RJ, McKinlay JB. Impotence and its medical and psychosocial correlates: results of the Massachusetts Male Aging Study. J Urol. 1994 Jan;151(1):54-61. doi: 10.1016/s0022-5347(17)34871-1. PMID: 8254833
2. Mills TM. Vasoconstriction and vasodilation in erectile physiology. Current Urology Reports. 2002 Nov;3(6):477–83.
3. Maiorino MI, Bellastella G, Esposito K. Lifestyle modifications and erectile dysfunction: what can be expected? Asian Journal of Andrology [Internet]. 2015;17(1):5–10. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4291878/