Many frequently prescribed medications as well as recreational drugs can cause erectile dysfunction as a side effect. Anti-depressants and anti hypertensive drugs are both well known classes of medications with this possible side effect. Endocrine abnormalities and hormonal imbalances, such as low testosterone are also a cause of erectile dysfunction.
Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, guilt, depression and low self esteem can all lead to erectile dysfunction.

Men who have “wet dreams” or wake up with an erection but cannot experience an erection leading up to and during intercourse, may suffer from erectile dysfunction of a psychological root. Effective stress coping strategies, counseling and exercise can all help to relieve erectile dysfunction of a psychological nature.

Medication can be injected into the penis or taken orally prior to intercourse to effectively treat erectile dysfunction. Oral medications such as Viagara work by enhancing the effects of nitric oxide, which relaxes smooth muscle allowing for increased blood flow this improving the response to sexual stimulation. Oral testosterone can help to supplement low levels of natural testosterone if this is an issue. It can therefore help to treat erectile dysfunction, although it should only be used under the guidance of your healthcare provider.

There are a variety of lifestyle modifications, as well as effective supplementation that can dramatically reduce the risk of erectile dysfunction, as well as improve existing impairments. As mentioned earlier, lifestyle habits that increase the risk of heart disease or atherosclerosis also increase the risk of erectile dysfunction. Smoking, poor dietary habits, such as a diet high in saturated or trans fats, as well as obesity, are all related to increase incidence of erectile dysfunction. Moderate exercise and weight loss can be the first step in prevention. A diet high in fiber, high in green leafy and bright colored vegetables, fruits and good fats can also go a long way in reducing the risk and treating the root cause of erectile dysfunction. Acupuncture can also increase blood flow, as well as stimulate nerve conduction throughout the body and to specific areas within the body by tapping into the Qi or energy meridians beneath the surface.

B Vitamins play a strong role in nerve conduction through out the body. B1 or Thiamine is one of the primary vitamins used in nerve conduction; however absorption with thiamine can be tricky. Benfotiamine is a fat soluble version of vitamin B1 and a good alternative to help with improved absorption. Vitamin B12 also has an affinity for the nervous system, and is commonly used for the treatment of depression and such neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis. Vitamin B6 also plays a strong role in nerve conduction and is being studied for its use in the treatment of depression, Parkinson’s disease and peripheral neuropathies, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Excessive amount s of B6, in amounts above 100mg/day, can also cause peripheral neuropathies for some individuals. Niacin, or Vitamin B3, lowers “bad” cholesterol LDL and VLDL, as well as increases the good HDL cholesterol in our bodies. It also reduces triglycerides and total cholesterol, therefore drastically reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. Niacin may cause harmless skin flushing.

The following list of supplements can be used for treating erectile dysfunction.  Adult doses are given.  (CLICK SUPPLEMENT NAME FOR PRODUCTS).