ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION (ED) FAQs

ED (erectile dysfunction) is very common - 50% of men in their 30s have difficulties achieving or maintaining an erection.

An erection is caused by blood flowing into the penis. In most cases when we are sexually stimulated the penis produces nitric oxide. Nitric oxide activates an enzyme called guanylate cyclase which results in the production of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). It is cGMP that is principally responsible for an erection as it directs the relaxation and contraction of the vessels that deliver blood to and from the penis.

So far so good. However, to varying degrees, we produce an enzyme called phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) which destroys the cGMP. This makes it harder to get and maintain an erection.

Man Behind the Mirror offers treatments that prevent the destruction of cGMP. Our treatments include active ingredients that serve as inhibitors that bind to PDE5 and stop it from working. This allows cGMP to accumulate and persist in the body for longer. The longer cGMP persists, the more prolonged the erection of the penis.

We offer four ED treatments which are available on a prescription basis: Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Viagra and Viagra Connect. All four treatments are highly effective at treating ED and are used by millions of men globally. 

The treatments can be purchased by completing a quick online consultation so that our partner clinicians can determine their suitability for you. Once prescribed, the treatments are delivered quickly and discreetly to you within 2-3 working days.

The main cause of ED is the action of an enzyme found in the walls of blood vessels called PDE5. The action of PDE5 prevents blood vessels that transport blood to the penis from widening which makes it difficult to get and to keep an erection.

Our treatments contain active ingredients that serve as  PDE5 inhibitors. This means they block PDE5 from working. This allows the blood vessels transporting blood to the penis to relax, increasing blood flow to the region, thereby making it easier to get an erection.

Sildenafil, Viagra and Viagra Connect are very similar as they all have sildenafil as the active ingredient. This means that they all treat ED in the same biological way. The main difference is that Sildenafil is a generic treatment and not branded. Put simply, it is cheaper than Viagra and Viagra Connect but has the same efficacy. All three treatments provide effective results for up to 4 hours after taking a tablet.  

Tadalafil is the generic version of Cialis. The active ingredient is tadalafil which has a slightly different biological affect than Sildenafil. Tadalafil takes effect quicker and lasts for longer at up 36 hours. It is commonly prescribed for men who are looking for longer-lasting effects or who have tried Sildenafil (or Viagra or Viagra Connect) and found it to be ineffective. 

Very effective.

Sildenafil, Viagra and Viagra Connect should be taken about 60 minutes before sexual activity. You should begin to feel a noticeable effect within 30 minutes with results lasting for up to four hours.

Tadalafil is the faster and longer lasting sibling of Sildenafil. It can work within 30 minutes and its effects can last for up to 36 hours . Tadalafil is referred to as the Weekend Pill as a tablet on a Friday night is sufficient for the entire weekend.

Like all medicine, our ED treatments can cause side effects. Clinical trials have shown that side effects are uncommon and affect only a small percentage of men. Side effects that some men experience include flushing and dizziness. You should be aware of the potential side effects before taking ED treatment.