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Men's Health

How to Get Erectile Dysfunction Medications

Aug 20, 2025 | 3 Min Read

Written by the RedBox Rx Editorial Team

Medically reviewed by Daniel Fick, MD

Contents

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that can affect men for a variety of physical or emotional reasons. It may occur occasionally or become more frequent with age or illness. Effective treatment options are available to help manage symptoms.

This guide will cover the most common ED medications, including well-known options like sildenafil (Viagra®) and tadalafil (Cialis®), as well as newer alternatives and over-the-counter options. You’ll also learn how to get a prescription online, what to expect from a consultation and how RedBox Rx makes the process simple, discreet and affordable.

Key Takeaways

  • Multiple treatment options are available for ED, including prescription medications, over-the-counter products and alternative therapies.

  • Common prescription medications like sildenafil (Viagra®) and tadalafil (Cialis®) are effective for many patients and work by improving blood flow.

  • Online consultations offer a safe, convenient way to get a prescription without visiting a doctor in person.

  • RedBox Rx offers ED treatments starting at just $1 per tablet with no insurance required.

What medications are available for erectile dysfunction?

There are several ways to manage ED, ranging from well-known prescription medications to newer over-the-counter options. The right treatment depends on the cause of your symptoms, your overall health and personal preferences.

Illustration of a man deciding between the top four most effective ED medications.

Prescription Medications

A widely used and highly effective class of medications for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) is the phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. These drugs work by enhancing blood flow to various areas of the body, including the genitals. The four leading PDE5 inhibitors currently available include:

Over-The-Counter Medications

Several over-the-counter (OTC) products are marketed to enhance male sexual performance, but their safety and effectiveness can vary significantly. The following are two commonly discussed options, including important considerations regarding their use.

  • Rhino pills. Over-the-counter (OTC) male enhancement products that claim to boost sexual performance by supporting longer-lasting erections and reducing the likelihood of premature ejaculation. The FDA warns against using Rhino supplements because of unlisted ingredients that may have harmful side effects.1

  • Eroxon topical gel. This new topical OTC option has been clinically proven to aid in male sexual function with faster results than prescription oral medications.2

Start an online consult to connect with a licensed RedBox Rx professional to determine the best ED treatment for you.

Who can prescribe ED medications?

Prescription ED medications can be prescribed by a Doctor of Medicine (MD), Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), physician's assistant (PA) or nurse practitioner (NP). While prescribing authority for physician assistants (PAs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) varies by state, most states in the U.S. allow them to prescribe noncontrolled medications for erectile dysfunction (ED).3

Can I get an ED prescription online safely?

Yes, you can get a prescription for ED medications online from licensed professionals at RedBox Rx. Start with a quick assessment.

To ensure a telehealth provider is legitimate, check for a Legit Scripts certification badge and a HIPAA compliant privacy policy on the website. These safeguards prove the site is properly licensed and your personal data is secure.

RedBox Rx ED Med Bottles

ED Prescriptions for $1-2 Per Pill

Know your ED prescription costs upfront. Get secure, private treatment online from RedBox Rx with FDA-approved meds starting at $1 per pill.

Get Started for Free

What questions will be asked during an ED consultation?

During an ED consultation, you will be asked a series of questions to help your provider understand your symptoms, medical history and overall health. These questions are designed to ensure that any treatment prescribed is both safe and effective. Some examples of questions your provider may ask:

  • Do you ever have a problem getting or maintaining an erection?

  • Have you been diagnosed with erectile dysfunction in the past?

  • Have you ever been treated for erectile dysfunction in the past?

  • Which treatments have you tried for erectile dysfunction?

  • Do you currently have, or have you ever had, any other medical conditions?

  • Do you have any cardiovascular risk factors like high cholesterol, family history of heart disease, diabetes or hypertension?

  • What is your average blood pressure?

  • Are you taking any other medications or supplements? If so, what are you taking?

  • In the past six months, have you used any recreational drugs?

  • Do you have any allergies to medications or other substances (For example, foods or dyes)?

How much do ED medications cost? Are they covered by insurance?

The price of ED medications will vary depending on type and brand name. Some insurance plans will cover ED medications when deemed medically necessary. Check with your benefits provider to get the details of your plan.

With RedBox Rx, ED medications start as low as $1 per tablet with no insurance required.

What should I know before taking ED medications?

Illustration of a man hugging a woman next to a list of what you should know before taking ED medications.

Most ED medications are effective and well tolerated by the majority of patients. However, it is not recommended to take PDE5 inhibitors if any of the following apply to you:4

  • History of heart attack, stroke or life-threatening arrhythmia in the past six months

  • Resting hypotension or hypertension

  • History of heart failure or unstable angina

  • Taking alpha-blockers

Before taking ED medications, you should be aware of any potential side effects, including:5

  • Headaches

  • Dizziness

  • Blushing

  • Nasal congestion

  • Dyspepsia

  • Visual changes


For individuals who either do not respond to PDE5 inhibitors or cannot tolerate their side effects, other treatment options may be considered, such as:6

  • Intracavernosal injections deliver vasodilators (increases blood flow) into erectile tissue.

  • Vacuum erection devices (penis pumps) help create an erection by using suction to draw blood into the penis. A small ring is then placed at the base to help keep the erection firm.

  • Penile prosthesis implantation is a surgical procedure where an inflatable device is inserted into the penis.

How RedBox Rx can help

Illustration of a man using a phone to get ED treatment through RedBox Rx. As low as $1 per dose. Free online assessment and free shipping.

RedBox Rx makes it easy to get safe, discreet and affordable prescriptions for FDA-approved erectile dysfunction medications like Viagra, sildenafil, Cialis, tadalafil, avanafil, and vardenafil.

Benefits of RedBox Rx include:

  • Transparent, affordable, flat rates for ED medications starting at $1 per tablet.

  • Free consultations with a U.S. licensed medical professional.

  • No insurance required. HSA and FSA eligible.

  • No office wait times or scheduling issues typical with physical medical practices.

  • Free shipping directly to you.

Start your treatment today with our quick, online ED assessment.

About the Medical Reviewer

Picture of Daniel Fick, MD

Dr. Daniel Fick is chief medical officer for RedBox Rx’s parent company, Hy-Vee, Inc. In this role, Fick helps oversee Hy-Vee’s health and medical initiatives, including RedBox Rx, and works alongside patients, employers, benefit providers and health care professionals. Fick has been a physician for more than 30 years, and holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa. He graduated from the Carver College of Medicine at the University of Iowa in 1989, and completed his Family Medicine residency and Sports Medicine Fellowship at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Tags:
Erectile Dysfunction
PDE5 Inhibitors
Tadalafil
Avanafil
Vardenafil
Sildenafil
Telehealth

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