Reviewed by a GPhC-registered Pharmacist at Newdays Pharmacy | Published: 2026 | Book an appointment
| Quick Answer: Sildenafil (the active ingredient in Viagra) and other erectile dysfunction treatments are available from GPhC-registered UK pharmacies following an appropriate clinical assessment. At Newdays Pharmacy in Berkshire, our pharmacists can provide a private consultation and, where clinically appropriate, supply licensed erectile dysfunction medication. |
Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects an estimated 4.3 million men in the UK across all age groups and is significantly underreported due to embarrassment and hesitancy to discuss the condition with healthcare professionals. As awareness has grown that ED is not simply a natural part of ageing but often a clinically manageable condition with effective treatments, demand for pharmacy based assessment and treatment has increased substantially.
What Causes Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction has both physical (organic) and psychological (psychogenic) causes, and frequently both contribute simultaneously.
| Physical CausesCardiovascular disease and reduced arterial blood flowDiabetes mellitus (autonomic neuropathy and vascular disease)HypertensionHigh cholesterol (dyslipidaemia)ObesityHypogonadism (low testosterone)Neurological conditionsMedication side effects (antidepressants, antihypertensives) | Psychological CausesPerformance anxietyDepressionRelationship difficultiesStressNote: ED can be both the result of anxiety and the cause of further anxiety, creating a cycle that worsens both the physical and psychological components |
ED as a Cardiovascular Risk Marker
Erectile dysfunction is increasingly recognised as an early marker of generalised vascular disease and cardiovascular risk. Because penile arteries are smaller than coronary arteries, atherosclerotic changes that reduce penile blood flow may manifest as ED several years before the same process causes angina or heart attack. Men presenting with ED, particularly those aged 40 and above with no obvious psychological cause, should be assessed for cardiovascular risk factors. Our pharmacists at Newdays can discuss cardiovascular risk assessment and refer to your GP where appropriate.
What Treatments Are Available at a UK Pharmacy?
Several PDE5 inhibitor medicines are available for ED following an appropriate clinical assessment:
- Sildenafil (Viagra and generic sildenafil): the original and most recognised PDE5 inhibitor. Available as 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets. Typically taken 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity
- Tadalafil (Cialis): longer acting, with a duration of up to 36 hours. Also available in a low daily dose (5 mg) for regular use. Preferred by some patients for spontaneity
- Vardenafil (Levitra) and avanafil (Spedra): alternative PDE5 inhibitors with slightly different pharmacokinetic profiles
All of these medicines require an erection to be triggered by sexual stimulation: they do not produce spontaneous erections and do not increase sexual desire.
PDE5 inhibitors are contraindicated in patients taking nitrate medicines (for example, GTN spray or isosorbide mononitrate used for angina) as the combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Our pharmacists will check for this and other contraindications before supplying any ED medication.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Sildenafil 50 mg is available as a Pharmacy medicine (P medicine) following a confidential consultation with a pharmacist for eligible men aged 18–64. At Newdays Pharmacy, our pharmacist will assess your medical history, current medicines and overall suitability before supplying treatment to ensure it is safe and appropriate for you.
NHS prescribing of erectile dysfunction medicines is generally limited to men with certain qualifying medical conditions, such as diabetes, neurological disorders, spinal cord injury or following prostate cancer treatment. Many men choose to access treatment privately through a pharmacy after a clinical assessment.
Not necessarily. However, erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease share several common risk factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and smoking. If ED develops unexpectedly, particularly alongside other cardiovascular risk factors, it is sensible to discuss a cardiovascular health assessment with your GP or pharmacist.
| Clinical Disclaimer: This article is intended for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any treatment or medication. Information is accurate as of the date of publication and reviewed by a GPhC-registered pharmacist. Newdays Pharmacy is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). Branch registration numbers: Eton/Windsor 1029048 | Twyford 1028983 | Coley Park Reading 1029008. |