Men's Health
FDA approves new over-the-counter gel for erectile dysfunction
In the journals
- Reviewed by Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing
Men will soon have a new option for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) that supposedly works faster than regular ED medication — and is available without a prescription. In June, the FDA approved the over-the-counter sale of MED3000 (Eroxon), a topical gel treatment for ED. MED3000 is supplied in single-use tubes. The contents are rubbed onto the head of the penis immediately before sexual intercourse.
The gel contains a combination of volatile solvents which, when applied to the head of the penis, evaporate rapidly, stimulating nerve endings through an initial cooling effect, followed by a warming sensation. This reaction releases nitric oxide, relaxing the smooth muscle tissue inside the penis and increasing blood flow that is needed to obtain an erection.
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About the Author
Matthew Solan, Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch
About the Reviewer
Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing
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