Erectile Dysfunction: Causes, Testing & Treatment
Erectile dysfunction is common, and it is treatable in most cases without ever needing to see a general practitioner first. At Pharmacyexprezz, our independent prescribing pharmacist can assess you, in person or remotely, and prescribe oral treatment directly where it is appropriate to do so. Appointments last around 15 minutes, and prices start from £20.
What is Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction means having ongoing difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection firm enough for satisfactory sexual activity. It is extremely common, particularly as men get older, and can happen for many different reasons, including physical causes, such as blood flow or nerve problems, and psychological causes, such as stress or anxiety. Often, more than one factor plays a part.
The treatment offered through this service is oral medication from a class of medicines called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. These medicines work by increasing blood flow to help achieve and maintain an erection during sexual stimulation.
Your pharmacist will discuss which option and dose best suit your lifestyle and health history during your consultation.
Is this service right for you?
This service is available to men aged 18 and over with moderate erectile dysfunction, as assessed using a short, validated symptom questionnaire during your consultation. Your pharmacist will ask about your symptoms, your general health, and any medicines you currently take, to check that oral treatment is appropriate and safe for you.
Important Safety & Suitability Information
This service is not suitable for everyone. Certain health conditions and medications mean oral erectile dysfunction treatment is not safe. Your pharmacist will screen for safety factors including:
Your Care Plan Guaranteed: Your pharmacist thoroughly checks for these during your consultation. If this service is not suitable for you, you will be referred directly to your general practitioner rather than left without a plan.
Some men with certain underlying conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, prostate cancer, or a history of certain pelvic surgery, may be eligible to receive erectile dysfunction medicine free of charge through the National Health Service instead. Your pharmacist will discuss this with you during your consultation, where relevant.
What to expect at your appointment
Choose Your Consultation Format
Your appointment can take place in person at our clinic, or remotely by video or telephone—whichever option you prefer.
Comprehensive Clinical Assessment
Your pharmacist will review your symptoms, general health, current medicines, and relevant medical history to build a complete clinical picture.
Blood Pressure Check (If Needed)
If there is any concern regarding your blood pressure, a complimentary check will be included as part of your assessment.
Prescription & Guidance
Where treatment is appropriate, your pharmacist prescribes and supplies your chosen medicine directly, explaining exactly how and when to take it.
How to prepare for your appointment
It is helpful to bring a list of any medicines you currently take, including anything bought over the counter, since certain medicines, particularly nitrates, cannot be safely combined with this treatment. It is also helpful to think in advance about how often you expect to need treatment, since this affects which option and dose may suit you best.
How to book your erectile dysfunction consultation in Great Yarmouth
Booking takes a couple of minutes online, or you can call the clinic directly to speak to someone first. Appointments are available in person at our clinic in Great Yarmouth, or remotely from anywhere.
Pricing starts from £20, depending on the medicine, dose, and quantity prescribed. The appointment lasts around 15 minutes. We are open six days a week, from 9 o’clock in the morning until 5 o’clock in the evening, for private services.
When to Seek Urgent Help
Stop treatment immediately and seek urgent medical attention if you experience any of the following critical symptoms:
Immediate Action Required: Discontinue medication right away and contact emergency services (call 999 or visit A&E) if you notice any of these symptoms.
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers.
Do I need to see my general practitioner first?
No. Our independent prescribing pharmacist can assess you and prescribe treatment directly, without needing a general practitioner appointment first, provided the service is suitable for you.
Can I have this consultation remotely?
Yes. Appointments are available either in person at our clinic in Great Yarmouth, or remotely, by video or telephone, whichever you prefer.
How much does treatment cost, and how long does the appointment take?
Pricing starts from £20, depending on the medicine, dose, and quantity prescribed. The appointment lasts around 15 minutes.
Can I get erectile dysfunction medicine free on the National Health Service?
Some men with certain underlying conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, prostate cancer, or a history of certain pelvic surgery, may be eligible for free National Health Service treatment. Your pharmacist will discuss this with you during your consultation, where relevant.
Is this service suitable for everyone?
No. Certain health conditions and medicines, including certain heart conditions, uncontrolled or very low blood pressure, a recent stroke or heart attack, and current use of nitrate medicines, mean this treatment is not safe. Your pharmacist checks for these during your consultation, and refers you to your general practitioner if the service is not suitable for you.
What should I do if I experience side effects?
Stop treatment and seek urgent medical attention if you experience chest pain, sudden loss of vision or hearing, or a painful erection lasting four or more hours. For other side effects, contact your pharmacist or general practitioner for advice.
When to Seek Urgent Attention
Stop treatment and seek immediate emergency medical care if you experience any of the following critical symptoms: