1. Herbal remedies 

Men should be advised not to take unlicensed herbal remedies for ED, as the MHRA has warned these can contain drug substances that may be contraindicated or interact with prescribed medication. Some have been found to contain sildenafil.

2. Other options

Treatments such as injections, pellets, topical creams, vacuum devices, testosterone replacement therapies and surgically implanted devices are also available, depending on the cause of the ED, and other tablets are available on prescription. These options can all be discussed with a GP.

3. Therapy

If ED is caused by anxiety and depression, individuals may find counselling and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) useful.

Sex therapy is considered effective in addressing the main causes and contributing factors of sexual difficulties and can be used in combination with other forms of treatment. It’s a talking therapy where an individual or couple work with a therapist to assess and treat their sexual and/or relationship problems. There’s usually a long wait for these services on the NHS, but they are also available privately.