Men’s Health – Erectile Dysfunction

Written by the Veritas Pharmacy clinical team. Address: 113 Chester Road, Sunderland. Registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council, registration number 9012617.

Erectile dysfunction is common, and it is treatable in most cases without ever needing to see a general practitioner first. At Veritas Pharmacy, 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 £15.

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.

What treatment is available?

The treatment offered through this service is oral medication from a class of medicines called phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. These medicines work by helping blood flow to the penis during sexual stimulation, and are taken either as needed before sexual activity, or, for one particular option, as a low daily dose. Your pharmacist will discuss which option and which dose may suit you.

This is a prescription only medicine, supplied under a Patient Group Direction, meaning your pharmacist follows a structured, nationally recognised protocol to assess your suitability before any supply is made.

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.

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

Your appointment can take place in person at our clinic, or remotely, by video or telephone, whichever you prefer. Your pharmacist will ask about your symptoms, your general health, any medicines you currently take, and any relevant medical history, so that a full assessment can be made.

If there is any concern about your blood pressure, you will be offered a blood pressure check as part of your assessment. Where treatment is appropriate, your pharmacist prescribes and supplies your chosen medicine directly, and explains 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 Sunderland

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 Sunderland, or remotely from anywhere.

Pricing starts from £15, depending on the medicine, dose, and quantity prescribed. The appointment lasts around 15 minutes. We are open seven days a week, from 9 o’clock in the morning until 5 o’clock in the evening, for private services.

Frequently asked questions about the erectile dysfunction consultation

Related reading: More Men’s Health articles