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Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is characterized by the consistent or recurrent inability to achieve and/or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. It becomes increasingly common with age, affecting approximately 50 - 55 per cent of men aged between 40 and 70 years. ED is estimated to affect up to three-quarters of men globally, and by 2025, 322 million men are expected to experience it. Research indicates that erectile dysfunction is highly prevalent in the UK, affecting over a quarter of younger men. Among Brits with ED, cardiometabolic and psychological conditions were frequently observed. Despite the high prevalence of erectile dysfunction among men, it remains poorly understood, underdiagnosed, and undertreated.

The UK based Pharma giant Futura Medical Plc's lead product, Eroxon, a topical Stim-gel is now available on NHS prescription in England and Wales for the treatment of Erectile Dysfunction (ED). The Muti-Drug Resistant (MDR) approved alternative to PDE5i, Eroxon is available as an over-the counter off shelf at retailers like Boots and Superdrug; and is available on NHS prescription in England and Wales as a CE-marked medical device. Erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, is the inability to get and maintain an erection, typically concerning men over the age of 40 due to both, psychological and physical causes such as anxiety, depression, diabetes, and obesity. According to UK Conformity Assessed (UKCA), the approval of the medication is based on evidence from 2 Phase three clinical studies, which showed that 60 per cent of patients taking Eroxon achieved Minimal Clinically Important Differences (MCID) at 12 weeks.

With GP waiting times on the rise and the secondary NHS care system under pressure, there is a further opportunity for pharmacy to support the general public with self-care. The men's health category is one category where pharmacists can play a leading role - specifically Erection Problems (EPs) where pharmacists can be key to building awareness, destigmatising the condition, and providing support and solutions for the patient. Training for pharmacists is essential - helping them to understand how they can assist those looking for treatment whilst also breaking down barriers and normalising the conversation around EPs. EPs are when a man regularly cannot get and keep an erection. EPs can happen to any adult man, not limited to the older generation, though they are particularly common in men over the age of 40. EPs may happen in some situations over others and so it is increasingly important for men to speak about and identify the cause of their symptoms, particularly because EPs can often be an indication of other serious health conditions like cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure or diabetes. If pharmacies can encourage men to seek help with their EPs, they may also be able to identify additional serious and undiagnosed conditions earlier, thereby supporting men's health more widely.