Erectile dysfunction is the inability to attain or sustain an erection satisfactory for sexual intercourse. Most erectile dysfunction is related to vascular, neurologic, and hormonal disorders; drug use and sometimes psychologic disorders are also causes. Evaluation typically includes screening for underlying diseases and measuring testosterone levels. Treatment options include oral phosphodiesterase inhibitors or apomorphine, intraurethral or intracavernosal prostaglandins, mechanical pump devices, and surgical implants.

The term impotence has been replaced by the term erectile dysfunction (ED). In the US, at least 10 to 20 million men > 18 are affected. The prevalence of partial or complete ED is about 50% in men 40 to 70 and increases with aging. However, many men can be successfully treated.

Factors Contributing to Erectile Dysfunction

• Lack of frequent erection
• Excessive smoking and alcoholism
• Emotional disorder, problem in relationship
• Diabetes, high cholesterol, and early stages of heart diseases

Erectile Dysfunction Treatment
Over the past few years, there has been an increased understanding of the physiology of erection and the pathophysiology of ED. We are beginning to understand the events leading to tumescence and detumescence at the cellular and molecular level. Combined with the advent of sophisticated diagnostic modalities, more and more of these patients are diagnosed with treatable organic causes of ED. Currently, there are a multitude of treatment options available, ranging from oral to injectable medications and various surgical treatments. A thorough understanding of penile physiology as well as current diagnostic and treatment modalities is necessary for proper evaluation and treatment of patients with ED.

Different pharmaceutical companies have launched number of herbal products to cure erectile dysfunction. They are popularly known and promoted with the name Herbal Viagra that is an alternative to Viagra. They are widely used by millions of people with satisfactory results. They are made from herbs and other medicinal plants and are completely secure.