What Is the Latest Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects more men's lives than any other medical condition. More than half of men over 40 experience it. But it's not just an "older man" problem—26% of men under 40 also face these challenges.

Each year, 10.3 million Americans seek treatment for ED. This article looks into the newest ED treatments, from shockwave therapy and stem cell treatments to PRP injections. It will examine how they compare to traditional options and share findings on what works, backed by Bookimed’s research.

New Erectile Dysfunction Treatments: Overview

✦ Shockwave therapy uses sound waves to stimulate new blood vessel growth in the penis, results last up to 2+ years.

✦ Stem cell therapy uses the body's "building blocks" to repair damaged penile tissue at the cellular level, results last 1-2+ years.

✦ PRP therapy (P-Shot) is an injection of platelet-rich plasma that improves erectile function for 12-18 months.

✦ Botoxinjections can relax smooth muscles to improve blood flow for 6-9 months, with the added benefit of treating premature ejaculation.

Table of Contents

1. New Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction
2. Traditional vs. New ED Treatments
3. What is the Best Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction?
4. How to Choose the Right ED Treatment
5. Future of ED Treatment
6. FAQ
7. How to Get the Latest Treatment for ED with Bookimed

New Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction

ED treatment has progressed beyond just relying solely on oral medications and penis pumps. The latest treatments for ED include shockwave therapy, stem cell treatments, PRP injections, and even Botox.

Shockwave therapy

Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive procedure that uses low-intensity sound waves to stimulate blood flow in the penis.

⟢ How does it work?

The doctor uses a wand-like device around the penis. It emits gentle pulses that trigger the creation of new blood vessels in your penis. These sound waves also activate dormant stem cells and growth factors that repair damaged tissue.

⟢ Pros and cons of shockwave therapy

Pros	Cons
✓ Non-invasive, no needles	✗ Requires multiple sessions
✓ No drug side effects	✗ Takes 1-3 months to see full results
✓ Painless	✗ Not covered by insurance
✓ Allows unplanned sexual activity
✓ Works without ED medications
✓ Long-term effects

⟢ Who is a good candidate for shockwave therapy?

• Men with all types of chronic ED, but especially vasculogenic ED
• Men who have an insufficient response to ED medications
• Men who prefer long-term solutions over daily pills

The best way to determine whether low-intensity shockwave therapy is right for you is to discuss your condition directly with a doctor.

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⟢ Success rate

According to clinical trials, up to 76% of patients maintain improvements for 2+ years after completing shockwave therapy.

Stem cell therapy

Stem cell therapy is the latest treatment for ED that uses stem cells, body’s “building blocks”, to repair and regenerate damaged tissue in the penis. This non-surgical treatment restores erectile function at a cellular level.

⟢ How does it work?

The procedure can use:

• Autologous stem cells from your fat tissue or bone marrow.
• Donor stem cells from amniotic fluid or umbilical cord tissue, which are rich in young, potent stem cells.

After processing stem cells in a lab, doctors either injects them into the penis or administer them through IV. These biological "repair crews" then:

• replace damaged or aging cells;
• increase blood flow;
• encourage the growth of new blood vessels;
• restore nerve function.

⟢ Pros and cons of stem cell therapy

Pros	Cons
✓ Non-invasive	✗ Limited availability (not yet FDA-approved, but well-regulated abroad)
✓ Long-lasting results	✗ Results may take time (4–12 weeks)
✓ Addresses multiple ED causes	✗ Limited long-term studies (beyond 2 years)
✓ Increases sensitivity by restoring nerves	✗ Still considered experimental by insurers
✓ Increased desire and satisfaction with sexual intercourse
✓ Reduces reliance on ED medications

⟢ Who is a good candidate for stem cell therapy?

• Men with erectile dysfunction from vascular, neurogenic, or diabetic causes
• Patients following prostate surgery
• Men who've had limited success with ED medications
• Men looking for permanent or semi-permanent solutions
• Men without active cancer or blood disorders

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⟢ Success rate

Clinical trials show:

• 100% of participants noticed better erections, sexual activity, and even quality of life.
• Sexual function scores rose from 12.9 (moderate ED) to 18 (mild ED) on average.
• Over half (53%) of patients could have penetrative sex without oral ED medications.

PRP Therapy (P-Shot)

PRP therapy, or P-Shot, is a natural, injection-based ED treatment that uses platelet-rich plasma from your blood to improve erectile function.

⟢ How does it work?

Platelet-rich plasma is the liquid part of blood, and platelets are tiny cell fragments loaded with growth factors that speed up healing.

Here’s what happens during the procedure:

1. Doctors draw a small sample of your blood.
2. It’s spun in a machine (a centrifuge) that separates the platelets and plasma from the rest. This produces a concentrated mix containing way more platelets than in normal blood.
3. Doctors use a numbing cream and inject PRP into the penis.

Once injected, platelets release growth factors that repair blood vessels and improve circulation—key ingredients for stronger erections.

⟢ Pros and cons of PRP therapy

Pros	Cons
✓ No risk of rejection or allergy	✗ Involves injections (but fast and low-pain)
✓ Long-term results	✗ Although initial results appear in 24 hours, they peak at 1–2 months
✓ May increase length and girth	✗ Not covered by insurance
✓ Increased sensitivity	✗ Long-term research (on effects beyond 18 months) is ongoing
✓ No medication needed

⟢ Who is a good candidate for PRP?

• Men who did not respond to oral medications.
• Those looking for a more natural, drug-free option.
• Men who want to boost results from other treatments (like shockwave).

⟢ Success rate

82.8% of men said PRP therapy improved their erections.

Botox

You've heard of Botox for wrinkles, but for erectile dysfunction? Yes, Botox can relax smooth muscles in the penis, improving blood flow and making it easier to get and keep an erection.

⟢ How does it work?

Botox blocks nerve signals that cause muscle tension. When injected into the base of the penis, it relaxes the surrounding smooth muscle. This relaxation:

• reduces involuntary contractions that restrict blood flow;
• improves filling of erectile chambers;
• enhances response to sexual stimulation.

Think of it as helping your blood vessels “chill out,” so blood flows in more easily when you’re aroused.

⟢ Pros and cons of Botox for male sexual dysfunction

Pros	Cons
✓ Minimally invasive procedure	✗ Results are less long-lasting than in other new treatments for erectile dysfunction
✓ Can improve response to ED meds	✗ Not widely available in the US
✓ Response improves with repeated treatments	✗ Better results when used with other treatments, not solo
✓ Good safety profile in studies	✗ Involves injections into sensitive areas (numbing helps)
✓ Increases girth
✓ Can treat premature ejaculation

⟢ Who is a good candidate for Botox?

• Men who haven’t had success with pills or injections.
• Those looking to boost results from oral medications.
• Men who want to increase girth and do away with premature ejaculation, along with treating erectile dysfunction.

⟢ Success rate

• Research shows 77.5% overall improvement, including for severe ED.
• The effectiveness improves with repeated treatments, with a 94.7% response after the 4th injection.
• Bonus benefit: Recent research on Botox for premature ejaculation shows it can increase lasting time during sex by 108%.

Traditional vs. New ED Treatments

The following treatments remain the first-line choice for erectile dysfunction:

Oral ED medications

PDE5 inhibitors like Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra work by increasing blood flow to the penis during arousal. They remain the first-line treatment for most men. However, they often require lifetime use, may cause side effects like headaches or flushing, and don't work for up to 40% of patients.

Penile injections

Medication (typically alprostadil, papaverine, or phentolamine) self-administered directly into the penis induce erections within minutes, regardless of arousal.

Though more effective than oral medications (80% success rate), injections require training and planning, may quickly rack up expenses, cause pain, and lead to side effects like prolonged erections.

Topical creams

Topical creams for ED contain medications that increase blood flow and are applied directly to the penis. Creams are not invasive like injections, but they work only for 65% of patients with erectile dysfunction.

Vacuum erection devices (penis pumps)

Penis pumps create a vacuum around the penis to draw blood in and cause an erection. While they’re effective, they can be awkward and time-consuming to use. They can also cause bruising.

Testosterone replacement

Hormone replacement through gels, patches, or injections can enhance erectile function. It also offers additional benefits like increased energy and muscle mass. However, it only helps when low testosterone is the underlying cause.

Penile implants

Penile implants are not among the latest treatments for erectile dysfunction. However, there have been some significant improvements to this surgical solution over the years, including:

• antibiotic-coated materials that have cut infection rates by over 50%;
• better durability, with a typical lifespan of 20 years;
• natural-feeling materials and designs.

Modern implants come in two main varieties:

• Inflatable devices that create the most natural-feeling erections.
• Semi-rigid rods that are constantly firm but can be positioned as needed.

With a satisfaction rate exceeding 95% among patients and 85% among partners, penile implants remain one of the most reliable long-term solutions for ED.

What is the Best Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to treating erectile dysfunction. The "best" treatment varies based on several factors:

• the underlying cause of ED;
• ED severity;
• whether you have tried first-line ED treatments already;
• age;
• overall health;
• personal preferences;
• and even your relationship dynamics.

In the table below, you can compare traditional and new treatments for ED to understand their key differences and success rates.

ED treatment	Wait time for effect	Duration of effect	Effectiveness
Oral medications	30-60 mins	4-36 hrs	70%
Topical creams	10-30 mins	1-2 hours	65%
Penile injections	5-20 mins	30-60 mins	80%
Penis pump	Immediate	10-30 mins	96%
Testosterone replacement	Weeks to months	Ongoing	65%
Penile implants	Immediate	Permanent	Over 95%
Shockwave therapy	4–12 weeks (gradual)	1–2+ years	76%
Stem cell therapy	4–12 weeks (gradual)	1–3 years	53%–100%
PRP therapy	1–2 months	12–18 months	83%
Botox injections	1–2 weeks	6-9 months	77.5%–94.7%

Among traditional treatments, penile implants offer the highest satisfaction rates and provide a permanent solution without the need for medication.

If you’re open to the latest treatments for ED, shockwave therapy and stem cell therapy have high success rates and offer lasting benefits by addressing the underlying causes rather than just symptoms.

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How to Choose the Right ED Treatment

If you’re unsure about which ED treatment to choose, your best bet is to consult with a qualified urologist who specializes in sexual health.

How to prepare for an appointment

Before seeing a urologist:

• Document your symptoms. Note when they began, their frequency, and severity.
• List any major life changes (recent stressors, relationship changes, and health history).
• List all your medications (prescriptions, supplements, and herbal remedies with dosages).
• Prepare questions you want to ask.

What to expect from your consultation

Your doctor will likely:

1. Discuss your medical history, health, sexual history, and lifestyle.

2. Perform a physical examination to check for physical causes of ED.

3. Order relevant tests (blood tests to check hormone levels, glucose, and cholesterol).

4. Discuss your erection patterns (including whether you can achieve erections during sleep, masturbation, or with partners).

5. Explore psychological factors (stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship concerns).

Based on the evaluation, the healthcare professional will identify underlying causes, consider your preferences and lifestyle, and develop an ED treatment plan.

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Future of ED Treatment

Scientists are currently researching several new ways to treat ED. While not yet available for widespread use, these innovative therapies hold potential for men who haven't had luck with currently available treatments.

Gene therapy

This latest treatment for erectile dysfunction delivers genes directly to penile tissue. These genes produce proteins crucial for erections. Gene therapy has worked well in tests on animals, but it needs more human trials before becoming widely available.

Melanocortin activators

These drugs work through the central nervous system rather than directly on erectile tissue. Key advantages include:

• Simple delivery through nasal sprays.
• Helpful for psychological ED causes.

Early clinical trials are promising, but larger studies are needed to confirm safety and effectiveness.

Regenerative medicine

Although stem cell therapy and PRP are already available and regulated in countries like Turkey, Thailand, and Mexico, the FDA has yet to approve them in the US.

Researchers are now conducting more clinical trials to:

• Check effectiveness beyond the initial 1-3 years.
• Determine optimal ED treatment protocols for different patient types.
• Set up standardized procedures for consistent results.

These long-term studies will enable regenerative treatments to become mainstream.

FAQ

What causes erectile dysfunction?

ED involves limited blood flow to the penis or compromised nerve function. 

Physical causes include:

• heart disease;
• diabetes;
• obesity;
• high blood pressure;
• high cholesterol;
• low testosterone. 

Psychological factors like stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues play a huge role too. Certain medications can also trigger ED as a side effect, especially blood pressure meds and antidepressants.

Can lifestyle changes help with erectile dysfunction?

Yes, healthy habits can support sexual function:

• Regular exercise improves blood flow throughout your body.
• Weight loss can improve erectile function if you're carrying extra pounds.
• Cutting back on alcohol, quitting smoking, and managing stress can improve vascular health. 
• Mediterranean-style eating patterns support vascular health.
• Better sleep habits boost testosterone production.

While not enough on their own for established erectile dysfunction, these changes can enhance the effectiveness of other treatments.

When to seek medical attention?

See a healthcare provider if:

• ED is persistent and affects your quality of life and mental health.
• You have other symptoms like premature or delayed ejaculation.
• You have chronic conditions like diabetes.

Early intervention often means simpler ED treatment. Plus, ED can be the first sign of serious conditions like heart disease, so getting checked out might literally save your life.

How to fix erectile dysfunction at 60?

At 60, it’s important to first address any underlying health issues (like heart disease or cardiovascular diseases) with your doctor. Lifestyle changes and ED treatments like medications, shockwave therapy, or implants could help restore function. It’s never too late to seek treatment.

What helps ED immediately?

For quick results, medications like Viagra or Cialis are your best bet. They work within 30–60 minutes and help improve blood flow for a few hours. If you haven’t responded to oral drugs, injections work within 5–20 minutes. Vacuum erection devices provide immediate medication-free assistance if you prefer a mechanical solution.

These quick fixes work well for immediate needs but may become less effective and more uncomfortable with continued use.

How to Get the Latest Treatment for ED with Bookimed

If you’re ready to treat ED once and for all, Bookimed can help:

🟢 Browse the latest treatments for erectile dysfunction.

🟢 Fill out a quick form and leave a request.

🟢 Get personalized recommendations from Bookimed’s medical coordinator based on your condition and preferences.

🟢 Get free online consultations with the world’s top urologists.

🟢 Select the clinic and doctor you’re most confident in.

🟢 Receive a personalized treatment program with exact costs from your doctor.

🟢 Arrange your trip with Bookimed’s help in booking flights and finding accommodation. 

Expect 24/7 assistance from your Bookimed coordinator throughout your ED treatment and recovery.

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