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What is impotence?

Impotence is a condition in which men have difficulty getting or keeping an erection. Many factors can lead to impotence, including stress, medical problems, medications, and alcohol. It's normal for most men to have impotence on occasion. But if it becomes a pattern or a long-lasting problem, talk to your doctor. There are medicines that can be effective in treating certain types of impotence.

Studies have proven some prescription medications effective in treating impotence. Sildenafil (brand name Viagra) and alprostadil (>Caverject, >Edex and >Muse) are the proven ones.

Various herbal products claim to enhance sexual desire and functioning—and often contain oat extract, yohimbe, and ginseng alone or in combination. However, herbal supplements have not been proven to be safe or effective for treating men with impotence.

Sources:
The Merck Manual of Medical Information: Home Edition. Merck & Co., 1997.
McCann, J. "Men's Health and Pharmacy," Drug Topics 142 (1998).
The PDR Family Guide to Natural Medicines & Healing Therapies. Medical Economics Co., 1999.
Micromedex Healthcare Series. Micromedex, Inc., 2001.

This answer prepared 7/24/01.