You shouldn’t use alprostadil cream if you have certain medical conditions, including: Peyronie’s disease (penile scar tissue buildup) and other deformities of the penis Peyronie’s disease (penile scar tissue buildup) and other deformities of the penis You should also avoid Eroxon if you have: An allergy to any of the ingredients An allergy to any of the ingredients Peyronie’s disease or other deformities of the penis Peyronie’s disease or other deformities of the penis Sore, damaged, or irritated skin on the penis Sore, damaged, or irritated skin on the penis If you have a condition that makes it risky to use erectile dysfunction creams, consult a medical professional about alternative treatments. You might even benefit from a few natural ways to protect erectile function. Certain lifestyle changes can improve your erections and overall sexual health. A 2024 study of topical ED products suggests that they can be helpful for many men. But the research stopped short of declaring them as effective as or better than ED medications, such as PDE5 inhibitors.
LinkOut - more resources
As with most medical treatments, erection creams and gels may have side effects and safety considerations. For instance, you could experience an allergic reaction to the ingredients. Another common side effect is skin irritation. As you know, the skin on and around the genitals is particularly sensitive, so some topical treatments might cause tingling or burning. This can affect your partner, too, who could experience anal or vaginal burning.
Ingredients and Potential Allergies
Be sure to check if your partner has any allergies before using an ED cream or gel with them. There’s also a possibility of priapism — a prolonged erection lasting more than four hours. Priapism is often painful and requires urgent medical treatment. Beyond potential side effects, these products just may not work for you. If erectile cream or gel isn’t giving you results, even after a few attempts, consider speaking with a healthcare provider about other options. At this point, very few ED creams and gels are backed by research, and only one has been authorized by the FDA.
Medication Type
Possible Interaction
Risk Level
Recommendations
Nitrate medications (for heart)
Increased risk of severe hypotension
High
Do not use without doctor consultation
Blood pressure medications
Potential blood pressure changes
Moderate
Consult healthcare provider
Other hormonal therapies
Altered hormone balance
Moderate
Medical supervision required
Antidepressants
Possible worsening of side effects or reduced efficacy
Low to moderate
Talk to doctor before use
That said, there are quite a few alternatives to ED creams and gels in the form of oral medications. While erectile dysfunction can be caused by physical ailments like cardiovascular disease, psychological factors may also come into play.
Product
Dosage
Quantity + Bonus
Price
Cialis Generic
5mg
360 + 10 Pills
268.08€ 255.31€
Levitra Professional
20mg
20 Pills
101.00€ 96.19€
Kamagra Gold
50 mg
60 + 4 Pills
171.14€ 162.99€
Levitra Generic
20mg
270 + 10 Pills
376.33€ 358.41€
Kamagra Effervescent Tablets
100 mg
42 + 7 Pills
122.97€ 117.11€
Kamagra
100mg
32 Pills
121.24€ 115.47€
Viagra Soft Tabs
100mg
180 + 10 Pills
314.95€ 299.95€
Cialis Generic
2.5mg
270 + 10 Pills
199.64€ 190.13€
Kamagra Oral Jelly
100mg
220 + 18 Sachets
662.24€ 630.70€
Viagra Generic
50mg
120 + 6 Pills
129.64€ 123.47€
Cialis Generic
10mg
90 + 6 Pills
146.17€ 139.21€
Levitra Generic
20mg
30 + 4 Pills
70.59€ 67.23€
Kamagra Oral Jelly
100 mg
10 Sachets
54.55€ 51.95€
Cialis Generic
10mg
10 Pills
31.41€ 29.91€
Cialis Soft Tabs
20mg
90 + 6 Pills
216.71€ 206.39€
Your ED could be due to mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or sexual performance anxiety. If you’re experiencing psychological ED, consider in-person or online therapy. Seeking treatment for mental health can lead to better erectile function while helping you feel better overall. What is the best cream for erectile dysfunction?
Is Eroxon® right for you?
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. With that in mind, it might be a good alternative to PDE5 inhibitors, as it can be safer for folks who use nitrates, alpha-blockers, and blood pressure medication. A 2017 study of men with type 2 diabetes and ED suggests that alprostadil cream may be an effective alternative for those who can’t (or prefer not to) take ED pills or who haven’t seen good results from standard ED medications. There’s just one problem: Alprostadil cream isn’t FDA-approved, and for that reason, you can’t buy it in the U.S. At least, not yet.
Is there a Viagra gel?
However, the FDA has approved Caverject®, an alprostadil-based injection for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. SST-6006 is a topical cream containing sildenafil. Though some studies have looked into the possibility of using sildenafil gel or cream, it’s not commercially available yet. A company called Strategic Science & Technologies LLC announced it had completed a phase 2A clinical trial of an SST-6006 product in 2017 and currently says it’s “actively engaged in partner discussions.” So for now, sildenafil gel isn’t yet a thing — but that might change in the future. If you’ve looked for supplements for erectile dysfunction, you’ve probably come across l-arginine. Erectile dysfunction creams and gels may seem great in theory, but few are available for purchase.
Many believe l-arginine can improve erectile function and sexual performance. This supplement is available in stores and online. L-arginine is linked to nitric oxide production. Indeed, nitric oxide plays a critical ed medications role in erectile function because it helps blood vessels relax, thus improving blood flow to the penis. Having said that, research on l-Arginine creams and other forms of nitric oxide cream for erectile dysfunction is basically non-existent.
Papaverine Gel
Other supposed ED creams contain natural ingredients like ginkgo biloba leaf, tree bark extract, and cuscuta seed. Many assume these products are safe because they’re “natural.” But we’d like to point out that poison ivy is also natural — and you’d probably never put it on your penis. Since these herbal remedies are supplements, they aren’t regulated or tested by the FDA in the same way medications are. Besides the fact that they may not actually work, the FDA warns that many so-called “sexual enhancement” treatments contain dodgy ingredients and potentially harmful contaminants. When it comes to your health, you’re wise to stick to safe, regulated treatments that are proven to be effective. Fortunately, though, there are many other ED treatments with plenty of satisfied customers. Here’s what to keep in mind when considering ED creams: The only FDA-authorized ED gel is Eroxon. Over-the-counter Eroxon is available without a prescription and works by cooling and heating the penis, stimulating the nerves to improve blood flow. The only FDA-authorized ED gel is Eroxon. Many “natural” products are marketed for improving erectile function and enhancing sexual performance — but there’s very little proof they work. Since the FDA doesn’t test or approve these supplements in the same way it regulates medications, they may contain harmful ingredients. There are legit alternatives to erectile dysfunction creams and gels. While very few ED creams and gels are on the market, numerous safe and highly effective erectile dysfunction treatments are available. Therapy can also be helpful if your ED has psychological roots, like anxiety.
Total Man Cream: A topical solution claiming to address all aspects of erectile health.
Vigor Rush Cream: Marketed for a quick and powerful improvement in erections.
Ultra Hard Cream: Advertised to deliver superior hardness and durability.
Max Endurance Cream: A product for prolonged sexual activity and satisfaction.
Hard Impact Cream: Claims to make a significant difference in erection performance.
Performance Boost Cream: Designed to enhance every facet of sexual experience.
Erectile dysfunction can be frustrating to deal with, but it is treatable. Learning more about ED and your treatment options is a solid first step in figuring it out.
Ingredient
Onset Time
Duration of Effect
Factors Influencing Duration
L-arginine
15-30 minutes
1-2 hours
Blood flow efficiency, skin absorption
Yohimbine
20-40 minutes
1-3 hours
Dosage, individual metabolism
Ginseng Extract
30-60 minutes
2-4 hours
Concentration, skin condition
Maca Root
Variable, hours
Several hours
Consistency of application, physical activity
Check out our blog posts on the latest ED treatments, remedies for premature ejaculation (PE), and how to get hard. Our online platform can connect you with a healthcare professional today. Clinical use of alprostadil topical cream in patients with erectile dysfunction: a review.
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.
SST completes Phase I trial of SST-6006 cenforce tablets to treat erectile dysfunction in men. Alprostadil cream in the treatment of erectile dysfunction: clinical evidence and experience. A review on phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors as a topical therapy for erectile dysfunction. Counterfeit phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors pose significant safety risks. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Randomized study of testosterone gel as adjunctive therapy to sildenafil in hypogonadal men with erectile dysfunction who do not respond to sildenafil alone. U.S.
Side Effects and Safety Profile of Topical ED Creams
According to the brand’s website, the topical gel works by cooling and warming the penis, stimulating the nerves. 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 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®.
Weight loss
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. 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. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
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.
Scoping review exploring advancements in topical agent therapies for erectile dysfunction. A double-blind placebo-controlled evaluation of the effect of topical sildenafil on erectile dysfunction.
Method
Typical Dosage/Use Frequency
Application Area
Additional Tips
Topical Creams
Apply 2-3 times daily
Penis shaft and glans
Wash hands after application
Gel Application
Use a pea-sized amount
Penile surface
Avoid contact with eyes
Ointments
Once before sexual activity
Penile skin
Conduct patch test beforehand
Spray
As needed
External genital area
Avoid inhalation, wash hands afterward
Alpostadil in cream — a new option of treating erectile dysfunctions in diabetes. Hims & Hers has strict sourcing guidelines to ensure our content is accurate and current. We rely on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We strive to use primary sources and refrain from using tertiary references. Dr. Kelly Brown is a board certified Urologist and fellowship trained in Andrology. She is an accomplished men’s health expert with a robust background in healthcare innovation, clinical medicine, and academic research. Dr. Brown was previously Medical Director of a male fertility startup where she lead strategy and design of their digital health platform, an innovative education and telehealth model for delivering expert male fertility care. She completed her undergraduate studies at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (go Heels!) with a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Science and a Minor in Chemistry. She took a position at University of California Los Angeles as a radiologic technologist in the department of Interventional Cardiology, further solidifying her passion for medicine. She also pursued the unique opportunity to lead departmental design and operational development at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, sparking her passion for the business of healthcare. Dr. Brown then went on to obtain her doctorate in medicine from the prestigious Northwestern University - Feinberg School of Medicine and Masters in Business Administration from Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management, with a concentration in Healthcare Management.
Unser Team mit Dipl. Physiotherapeuten hat sich kontinuierlich weitergebildet und methodisch und technologisch gerüstet. Seit über 30 Jahren helfen wir unseren Patienten die Lebensqualität zu verbessern.