What Are the Best Supplements For Erections?

By: Gregory Mark Oldford, M.D.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the inability to get and/or keep an erection that’s firm enough to have sexual intercourse. Numerous treatments are available under a doctor’s direction. But what about supplements with similar claims?

Prescriptions, including sildenafil (generic Viagra) and tadalafil (generic Cialis), have undergone vigorous testing before being approved to treat ED. Supplements and herbs can be bought on store shelves or sold online, and make claims about their ability to overcome ED without passing FDA scrutiny. This raises questions like: Are they safe? Do they work?

At Michigan Institute of Urology, we recommend talking to your doctor before taking any supplements or herbs for ED. They can tell you if it’s safe and if the recommended dosage is appropriate for you.

What the Research Shows

In 2023, as the National Library of Medicine reported, Italian researchers studied the effectiveness of some popular over-the-counter ED products. They discovered several that improved male sexual function. Other supplements also have been studied in men with positive results and are considered generally safe:

• L-arginine. In high doses, this amino acid can improve ED by improving blood flow. Stomach pain, bloating, headache, insomnia, and diarrhea are potential side effects. It should not be taken with sildenafil.
• Native to the eastern United States, this plant may improve ED, and in cream form has been shown to improve premature ejaculation. Common side effects are vertigo, insomnia, and headaches.
• Propionyl-L-carnitine. This chemical that is made naturally in the body, when combined with sildenafil, may improve ED better than sildenafil alone. When used for up to six months, no side effects are evident.
• DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone). In some studies, this hormone has been shown to help with ED that is linked to high blood pressure or ED that doesn’t have a clear cause. Long-term or heavy use may be linked to some cancers, but it is considered safe in low doses. Ask your doctor what dose is correct for you. Side effects include headache, insomnia, mood changes, nausea, and acne.
• Long thought to improve memory, anxiety, and premenstrual syndrome, this plant may boost blood flow to the penis, which can improve ED symptoms. Dizziness, headache, and digestive problems are side effects.

What Not to Believe

Herbal Viagra. Many products claim to be herbal forms of Viagra and are available without a prescription. Depending on their ingredients, they may have dangerous side effects. We urge men not to take such products and consult their doctor if they have questions.

Your Next Step

ED is one of the most common sexual problems men experience. It’s highly treatable by the physicians at Michigan Institute of Urology. While the supplements mentioned above may not harm you (except for products sold as “herbal Viagra”), you are urged to consult us before trying them. This is especially important if you’re taking medication for one or more health conditions, like diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure. Supplements can interact with medications and cause serious harm.

Some products are marketed as “natural.”  But natural doesn’t mean safe; just one more reason to talk to your doctor.

Learn more about ED, its causes, and treatment options.

Request an appointment with a Michigan Institute of Urology provider who can advise you about supplements and other treatment options.