Male enhancement pills are widely advertised. They can be found easily, especially on online pornography websites. These ads often make bold claims about increasing penis size or sexual stamina. However, most of these supplements lack scientific evidence to support their effectiveness. Many pills even contain potentially harmful ingredients.
Because of this, there are no male enhancement pills that have been approved by the FDA. However, there are FDA-approved medications, such as those used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE). These are effective in improving sexual function and performance.
This article provides you with a list of FDA-approved best male enhancement pills that have been rigorously tested and evaluated for their safety and efficacy.
What Are “Male Enhancement” Pills?
If you have researched ways to enhance your sexual performance, you may have come across advertisements and suggestions for various supplements. These ads often promise to improve your sexual abilities. These products, which are typically dietary supplements, are often advertised as a solution for all sexual issues. Some of the claims you may encounter include the following:
- enlarging your penis,
- increasing stamina,
- boosting your libido,
- enhancing satisfaction,
- promoting blood flow and
- helping you achieve stronger erections
These supplements are portrayed as the ultimate solution to all sexual problems and concerns. These pills are often labeled as dietary supplements and contain a blend of natural ingredients, such as
- ashwagandha,
- maca root,
- Yohimbe extract, and
- black ginger extract
Male enhancement pills, being classified as herbal supplements, do not undergo the same level of regulation as over-the-counter or prescription drugs. This means that they do not need to go through the FDA’s rigorous approval process and may not have undergone testing for safety or effectiveness. In addition, supplement makers don’t have to meet the same rules as drug manufacturers. Meaning they can make unverified claims about their effects.
Do Male Enhancement Pills Work?
Since male enhancement pills are not evaluated by the FDA, there is no valid research to support the claims made by these products. Some ingredients in these pills have been studied for treating ED, but they don’t prove the pills are effective.
For instance, a 2011 study found that ashwagandha, an ingredient commonly found in male enhancement pills, was not effective in treating psychogenic ED.
Studies on similar ingredients have not found them to be effective in treating ED. Even in cases of psychogenic ED, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for advice on the best course of action.
Are There Any FDA-Approved Best Male Enhancement Pills?
Currently, the FDA does not approve any pills for ‘male enhancement’ or ‘sexual enhancement’. However, there are FDA-approved medications for sexual health conditions like ED. These include PDE5 inhibitors like sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil, and avanafil.
Medications for sexual health conditions, such as ED, have been approved by the FDA, such as PDE5 inhibitors. These inhibitors can increase blood flow to the penis. It allows for easier achievement and maintenance of an erection during sexual arousal. Some of these medications may also provide benefits for premature ejaculation. Although none have been specifically approved for this purpose by the FDA.
Best FDA-Approved Male Sexual Enhancement Pills
Sildenafil
Sildenafil, commonly known as the generic version of Viagra, is a widely-used medication for ED. It has been approved by the FDA since the late 1990s. It begins to take effect within an hour and can provide relief for up to four hours. This makes it a convenient option for those who want to use it shortly before engaging in sexual activity.
Studies indicate that sildenafil is effective for most men with ED. Over 80% of men reported improvements in erections at the highest dose (100mg) during clinical trials as part of the FDA approval process. Even at lower doses, such as 25mg and 50mg of sildenafil, over 60% of men with ED reported improvements. While it’s considered safe, it may cause side effects.
Tadalafil
Tadalafil is an ED medication that can provide relief for up to 36 hours per dose. It is available in different strengths, both as a generic and under the brand name Cialis. Its prolonged action time is its main benefit, as it allows for more flexibility in terms of sexual activity. It is sometimes referred to as the “weekend pill.”
Tadalafil may be preferred over other ED medications if a person desires more frequent sexual activity or does not want to have to schedule medication usage closely to sexual activity. It can also be taken daily at a lower dose for ongoing ED treatment. Its mechanism of action is similar to sildenafil, resulting in similar side effects. But these may persist for a longer period of time due to tadalafil’s long half-life.
Vardenafil
Vardenafil is a medication that is approved by the FDA for treating erectile dysfunction. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis, helping with erections when sexually stimulated. The medication, which is sold under the brand name Levitra, takes around one hour to start working and can last for up to six hours. The side effects of vardenafil are similar to those of other ED treatments. Inform a healthcare provider of any current or recent medications before taking it.
Avanafil
Avanafil, sold under the brand name Stendra, is a newer medication for erectile dysfunction that has been approved by the FDA. It is more targeted in its approach, targeting the specific enzymes responsible for blood flow to the penis. Thus it has a lower risk of causing certain side effects compared to other ED medications such as sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil.
It also works more quickly, with some men experiencing improvements in erections in just 15 to 30 minutes. Speak with your healthcare provider before starting treatment with avanafil. It can cause negative effects and interact with other medications, similar to other ED drugs.
Risks of Unsafe, Unapproved Male Enhancement Pills
Most over-the-counter sexual enhancement ingredients lack research on their effectiveness. They may also contain undisclosed ingredients that may not be safe to use.
The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning about a significant number of male enhancement and weight loss supplements. A majority of these products, which are not FDA-approved, have been found to contain these hidden ingredients. The FDA also keeps an updated list of these tainted supplements on its website for public access.
Unlike FDA-approved ED medications, these supplements are not produced in a hygienic environment. It may contain hidden ingredients that are not measured carefully. This can lead to contamination and the risk of taking too much of a specific pharmaceutical ingredient without even knowing it.
Additionally, these treatments are not proven to be effective, can cause side effects, and may pose risks to one’s health and well-being. So, it is best to avoid these types of supplements despite their claims of improving sexual function and performance.
Can Male Enhancement Pills Increase Penis Size?
There are currently no FDA-approved medications or supplements that can increase the size of the penis. Medication for ED can improve blood flow and make the erect penis appear slightly larger, but it may not be noticeable without measuring.
According to a 2021 study, the average erect penis size is between 5.1 and 5.5 inches or 12.95 and 13.97 centimeters. A penis is considered to be small if it measures less than 3 inches when erect, which is referred to as a micropenis. If you’re struggling with erections during sex, talking to a doctor can help figure out if you have erectile dysfunction. It’s important to appreciate one’s own body rather than worrying about increasing penis size.
Should You Take Male Enhancement Pills?
No, given the potential risks associated with taking male enhancement pills, it is not advised to take these pills. It is important to consult a doctor before adding any new supplements to your diet. Safer alternatives, such as medication prescribed by a doctor or wearable devices, may be more appropriate options for addressing any concerns related to sexual function or performance.
Alternatives That Actually Work
ED Medication
If you are having trouble getting or keeping an erection, talk to a healthcare professional. They may suggest taking oral medication for erectile dysfunction (ED). Medications like Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra have been shown to be effective in treating ED. A 2002 study found that 95% of men who took sildenafil (the active ingredient in Viagra) reported that it improved their ability to have sexual intercourse.
Surgery
Surgery for penis enhancement is usually not recommended. It’s only done for functional reasons, such as correcting a developmental issue or treating an injury. There is no surgical way to increase the length of the penis. The procedures like cutting the suspensory ligament only lead to an apparent increase in length.
However, the penis is not tethered to the pubic bone anymore, which leads to no anchor. Penile prosthesis surgery is done in severe cases of ED. However, it doesn’t increase the length of the penis, and it can result in some penile shortening. Surgery to correct severe curvature can also lead to penile shortening.
When To See A Doctor?
If you are experiencing symptoms of erectile dysfunction (ED), speak with your doctor. They can determine the underlying cause and explore treatment options. ED can be caused by various physical or psychological factors. Your doctor can help rule out common causes and determine the best course of treatment for you.
Medication may not be effective if the cause of your ED is related to factors such as changes in nutrition, stress, or depression. If you are considering taking any herbal supplements or male enhancement pills, consult with your doctor first. They can provide guidance on their effectiveness and potential risks. Additionally, your doctor may be able to recommend a safer and more regulated alternative.
The Bottom Line
Currently, there are no male enhancement pills that have been approved by the FDA. The male enhancement supplements found for sale online, in gas stations, and in sex stores are classified as dietary supplements. They do not require FDA approval.
There is little scientific evidence to support the claims that these products can improve sexual function or increase penis size. Additionally, many of these supplements contain unsafe ingredients that can cause adverse health effects. To boost your sexual performance or self-confidence, talk to a healthcare provider about safe options. Don’t rely on unproven supplements.
References
- Mamidi P, Thakar AB. Efficacy of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera Dunal. Linn.) in the management of psychogenic erectile dysfunction. Ayu. 2011 Jul;32(3):322-8. doi: 10.4103/0974-8520.93907. PMID: 22529644; PMCID: PMC3326875. https://www.ayujournal.org/article.asp?issn=0974-8520;year=2011;volume=32;issue=3;spage=322;epage=328;aulast=Mamidi
- VIAGRA- sildenafil citrate tablet, film coated. (2017, August). Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/spl/data/40578e70-350a-4940-9630-55d90989c146/40578e70-350a-4940-9630-55d90989c146.xml
- Sildenafil. (2018, January 15). Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a699015.html
- CIALIS- tadalafil tablet, film coated. (2017, May). Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/spl/data/05dbd8b6-1b9d-436a-a67c-8a16713f753f/05dbd8b6-1b9d-436a-a67c-8a16713f753f.xml
- LEVITRA (vardenafil hydrochloride) tablets, for oral use. (2014, April). Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/021400s017lbl.pdf
- STENDRA- avanafil tablet. (2017, August). Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/spl/data/41d308f4-9a6a-48bb-b7a0-d63da9818078/41d308f4-9a6a-48bb-b7a0-d63da9818078.xml
- Tainted Sexual Enhancement Products. (2022, July 28). Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/medication-health-fraud/tainted-sexual-enhancement-products
- Kotta, S., Ansari, S.H. & Ali, J. (2013). Exploring scientifically proven herbal aphrodisiacs. Pharmacognosy Review. 7 (13), 1-10. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3731873/
- King BM. Average-Size Erect Penis: Fiction, Fact, and the Need for Counseling. J Sex Marital Ther. 2021;47(1):80-89. doi: 10.1080/0092623X.2020.1787279. Epub 2020 Jul 15. PMID: 32666897. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/0092623X.2020.1787279
- Carson CC, Burnett AL, Levine LA, Nehra A. The efficacy of sildenafil citrate (Viagra) in clinical populations: an update. Urology. 2002 Sep;60(2 Suppl 2):12-27. doi: 10.1016/s0090-4295(02)01687-4. PMID: 12414330. https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0090429502016874
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