Self-medication for erections: why is it a major risk to men’s health?

Homem sentado na cama com a mão cheia de comprimidos azuis representando remédio para ereção

Self-medication for erections: why is it a major risk to men’s health?

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Using erection medications without a prescription can cause psychological dependence, mask health problems, and worsen other conditions.

Self-medication for erections is the use of medications that promise an erection or improved sexual performance without a medical prescription.

Because there is pressure to meet unrealistic performance standards, many men misuse sexual stimulants.

In search of quick solutions, buying stimulants online is a harmful alternative to health.

Learn the risks of self-medication for erections.

Risks of self-medication for erections

The side effects of erection medications may be more intense when there is no prescription and medical guidance. See the risks below.

1. Cardiovascular health risks

The cardiovascular risks of erection medications occur because they can lower blood pressure.

This side effect tends to be more intense when use is combined with blood pressure medications, which may cause a sharp drop in pressure and other adverse events.

An ANVISA alert highlights that self-medication increases the risk of heart attack and stroke, especially in people predisposed to cardiac events.

2. Priapism

Priapism — an involuntary, persistent, and painful erection — is one of the main dangers of using erection medications without a prescription.

This condition can form rigid plaques inside the penis, increasing the chance of curvature or thinning of the shaft.

3. Psychological dependence

According to a PUC-RIO article on the indiscriminate use of erectile dysfunction medications, psychological dependence is one of the main side effects. In other words, believing that good performance depends on medication can lead to anxiety, which may harm men’s mental health.

4. Sudden vision or hearing loss

A news report from the Federal Pharmacy Council states that sudden vision loss is one of the dangers of using Viagra without medical supervision.

The report describes that Iranian scientists published the case of a 32-year-old man who lost vision in one eye after excessive Viagra use without a prescription.

Other adverse effects attributed to self-medication for erections include:

  • hearing loss;
  • headache;
  • facial flushing;
  • nasal congestion.

5. Counterfeit and ineffective products

Counterfeit erection medications are also a risk.

This is intensified by purchasing stimulants online, since there is no proper oversight and no requirement for a prescription.

Counterfeit drugs may contain unknown substances that do not treat erectile dysfunction and may even cause intoxication.

In addition, products such as tadalafil gummies do not have proven efficacy and are not approved by Anvisa.

6. Delayed diagnosis

Misuse of sexual stimulants can also delay the correct diagnosis of erectile dysfunction.

This means that the real causes of the problem — such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hormonal changes — may remain without appropriate treatment.

Infographic on the risks of erection medications without a prescription

Infographic on the risks of erection medications without a prescription

The importance of a urologist for the proper treatment of Erectile Dysfunction

Men who suspect they have erectile dysfunction should seek medical guidance.

During a urology visit, the specialist asks when erection difficulties began and reviews the clinical history.

The diagnosis also depends on the patient, who should report any medication use.

Tests to measure hormone levels, identify possible anatomical issues, and investigate cardiovascular conditions help define erectile dysfunction.

With the correct diagnosis, the urologist prescribes a personalized treatment plan, which may include oral or injectable medications, as well as complementary therapies, such as the penis pump.

In addition to pharmacological treatment, men can adopt healthy habits that are recognized for supporting overall health, including factors related to sexual function.

Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, avoiding excessive alcohol intake, and not smoking are measures that benefit men’s health as a whole.

Self-care habits — such as attention to mental health and good sleep routines — are factors that may positively influence well-being and should be considered as part of the clinical context.

A healthy erection goes beyond the pill: talk to Dr. Paulo Egydio

A healthy erection involves both physical and emotional factors.

If you are experiencing erection difficulties and are considering using stimulants without a prescription, consult a urologist first.

The urologist is the qualified professional to evaluate the condition and indicate therapeutic options that fit each patient’s clinical profile.

Fill out our pre-analysis form and receive initial guidance about your case by email.

 

Paulo Egydio, M.D.

PhD in Urology from USP, CRM 67482-SP, RQE 19514, Author of Geometric Principles (known as “Egydio Technique”), as well as other articles and scientific books in the area. Guest professor to teach classes and live surgeries at conferences in Brazil and abroad.

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