What are some of the main medical treatments for male sexual dysfunction?

    Written by:
    Nick Milazzo, Brady Holmer

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    by:

    Mike Murray
    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    Medical treatments for male sexual dysfunction vary by condition and include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) as well as topical anesthetics for premature ejaculation, cessation of certain medications for delayed ejaculation, phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors for erectile dysfunction, and testosterone replacement therapy for low libido. Additionally, underlying issues such as depression or cardiovascular disease may contribute to sexual dysfunction.

    Depending on the condition, a variety of medical treatments may be used:[1]

    ConditionMedical Treatments
    Premature ejaculationSelective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) Topical anesthetics (e.g., lidocaine)
    Delayed ejaculationCessation of medications that may cause delayed ejaculation (e.g., SSRIs, opioids)
    Erectile dysfunctionPhosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil, vardenafil, tadalafil)
    Low libidoTestosterone replacement therapy and/or cessation of libido-reducing medications (e.g., SSRIs, opioids)

    Additionally, sexual dysfunction can be secondary to some other issue, such as depression, cardiovascular disease, or hypogonadism (i.e., low testosterone).

    What are some of the main medical treatments for male sexual dysfunction? - Examine