Two new erectile dysfunction drugs: How they measure up against Viagra

The January Harvard Health Letter also examines the three drugs' similarities:

• They all work by relaxing smooth muscle cells, thereby widening blood vessels.
• None of the drugs automatically produce an erection. Rather, they make an erection possible with sexual arousal.
• Resulting side effects are comparable and may include headaches, heartburn, and flushing.
• The FDA advises against mixing these drugs with alpha blockers and nitrate medications.

Even with the introduction of these two new drugs, the decision to medicate erectile dysfunction should be carefully considered with a physician and will vary among male patients.