Chewable Viagra: How Does It Work, And Is It Right For You?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects millions of men worldwide, [1] and for decades, oral medications have been one of the most common treatment options. But now, recent advancements have introduced a new, more convenient option, chewable tablets. Let’s explore what chewable tablets for ED are, why people are choosing them, and how they’re made.

Why choose chewable tablets for ED?

Chewable tablets for ED offer an alternative to traditional tablets or capsules, providing the same active ingredients that help men achieve and maintain an erection. Here’s why people are increasingly turning to these options:

Easy to swallow

Lots of people, particularly those with certain medical conditions, find it difficult to swallow standard erectile dysfunction pills. Chewable tablets eliminate this issue entirely, allowing the medication to be crunched and swallowed just like a mint.

Faster action

Chewable tablets could work faster than traditional oral medications because chewing breaks them down quickly. This helps your body absorb the medicine faster in your stomach and intestines. [2] In theory, this means the active ingredients may reach your bloodstream quicker, helping you experience results earlier.

Discreet to use

A chewable tablet isn't swallowed whole like a typical pill, which makes them a more discreet option if you don't want to draw attention to your treatment. They’re also easy to carry, fitting right into your pocket or wallet in discreet packaging, unlike pill packets or bottles.

Better taste

Most chewable ED tablets come in flavours like mint, which can hide the taste of the bitterness you might notice when taking regular pills.

How do chewable tablets for ED work?

The active ingredients in chewable tablets are the same as those in traditional ED medications. Most chewables contain sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis) which are known as PDE5 inhibitors. These drugs work by relaxing blood vessels, which increases blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, helping you achieve and maintain an erection. [3]

Why do people choose compounded chewable tablets?

Although there are commercial chewable ED tablets available, some people prefer a custom option. That’s where compounding pharmacies come in. Compounding is the process of creating a customised medication tailored to your needs. It lets pharmacists prepare medications in forms, strengths, or flavours that aren’t always available from major pharmaceutical manufacturers. Each treatment is a custom-made recommendation, based on an evaluation from a licensed medical provider.

Personalised dosages

Standard ED medications are available in specific dosages, which may not work perfectly for everyone. With compounding, a pharmacist can create chewable tablets with custom dosages, ensuring that you receive the right amount of medication based on your condition and health history.

Alternative ingredients

Compounding pharmacies can adjust inactive ingredients to accommodate allergies or sensitivities. Some people react to certain fillers or preservatives in commercial medications, and compounded chewables can be made without these unwanted ingredients.

Custom flavours

Some compounding pharmacies offer chewable tablets in a range of flavours, such as mint flavour, which can be more palatable than a regular tablet.

Availability

Compounding can also be an option if specific ED medications are unavailable in chewable form. A compounding pharmacy can help create chewables with the same active ingredients as traditional pills.

Side effects

Some potential side effects of active ingredients (both chewable versions and generic versions) like sildenafil and tadalafil include:

• Nasal congestion (runny nose)
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Facial flushing

If you experience any of the following side effects while using a PDE5 inhibitor for ED, seek medical attention immediately:

• Painful erection that won't subside
• Severe chest pain
• Sudden vision loss

How safe are compounded chewables?

When made by a reputable and licensed compounding pharmacy, compounded chewable ED tablets are safe and effective. Pharmacists in these facilities follow strict regulations and standards to ensure the quality and safety of each custom-made medication. However, it’s essential to consult with a doctor or healthcare professional about any compounded medication to make sure it’s right for you.

Is chewable medication right for you?

If you struggle with swallowing pills, chewable tablets could be the right fit for you. Consult with your doctor to discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, and any specific needs you have. Your doctor may then direct you to a compounding pharmacy that specialises in chewable ED medications tailored to your unique situation.

Chewable tablets for ED offer a convenient solution for anyone looking for an easy-to-use treatment option. And thanks to compounding pharmacies, these chewables can be customised to the right dosage and formulation for you.

Looking to start an ED treatment? There's no need to visit a doctor in person.

Find out what treatment is suitable for you on MedExpress.

References:

1. Feldman HA, Goldstein I, Hatzichristou DG, Krane RJ, McKinlay JB. Impotence and its medical and psychosocial correlates: results of the Massachusetts Male Aging Study. J Urol. 1994 Jan;151(1):54-61. doi: 10.1016/s0022-5347(17)34871-1. PMID: 8254833
2. Adepu S, Ramakrishna S. Controlled Drug Delivery Systems: Current Status and Future Directions. Molecules [Internet]. 2021 Sep 29;26(19):5905. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8512302/
3. Dhaliwal A, Gupta M. PDE5 Inhibitor [Internet]. PubMed. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2020. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549843/