Urinary & Sexual Health

Erectile Dysfunction: UK Online Doctor & Sildenafil/Tadalafil

7 min readLast reviewed 24 April 2026

Educational information — not medical advice.

This article was prepared by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and reviewed for factual accuracy against UK clinical guidance (NHS and NICE). It is not written by a doctor and does not replace personal medical advice. For symptoms specific to you, book an online doctor consultation.

Key points

  • ED affects most men at some point — it's common and treatable.
  • First line: PDE5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil).
  • Lifestyle changes (exercise, weight, stop smoking) significantly help.
  • ED can signal underlying cardiovascular disease — always worth a check.
  • An online doctor can prescribe discreetly, often with delivery.

Causes

  • Vascular: high BP, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking
  • Hormonal: low testosterone
  • Neurological: nerve damage, MS, after pelvic surgery
  • Psychological: stress, anxiety, depression, performance anxiety
  • Medications: antidepressants, antihypertensives

Treatment

  • PDE5 inhibitors: sildenafil 50–100 mg as needed, tadalafil 10–20 mg as needed or 5 mg daily.
  • Alprostadil (cream, pellet or injection) for non-responders.
  • Vacuum devices, penile rings.
  • Couples therapy for relationship/anxiety factors.
  • Surgical implants for severe refractory cases.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions UK patients ask about erectile dysfunction.

How an online doctor can help

This article is for general information only and does not replace personal medical advice from a qualified doctor. Content is reviewed against UK NHS and NICE guidance by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and is not authored by a medical doctor. If your symptoms worsen or you are unsure, please book a consultation with a GMC-registered GP.

See a UK GP about this today

Same-day video or phone consultations with GMC-registered GPs. Prescriptions, sick notes and referrals when clinically appropriate.