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Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition, but for many men, talking about it with a doctor can be difficult and embarrassing. An online ED medication retailer such as BlueChew provides a way to obtain erection-enhancing medications without an in-person doctor visit. But as with all online medication retailers, caution is in order.

How do online ED medication retailers work?

Online ED medication retailers use telehealth appointments to connect patients with medical providers. These visits are conducted online, but the format varies depending on where you live. Some states require a video chat; in others, the visit can happen without video.

Some common online retailers include BlueChew, hims, and Roman. Obtaining ED medications from BlueChew or other retailers starts with completing an online form, available on the company's website or through an app that you download. You answer questions about your health and medical history. You also need to provide proof of your identity to the company — for example, by uploading a photo of your driver's license.

A medical provider who is licensed in your state (not necessarily a doctor) will review your information and will message you with questions and to set up an online or video visit. If it's appropriate, the medical provider can prescribe the type of ED medication that's right for you. Commonly prescribed ED medications include sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra).

The medications are sent through the mail in unmarked packages. Medical information is kept private and secure.

Are online medication retailers legitimate and safe to use?

Though many are, not all online medication retailers are legitimate and safe to use. Safe medication retailers will always require a provider's prescription, will have a U.S. address and phone number, and will be licensed with a state board of pharmacy. Make sure any online medication retailer you're considering meets all of these criteria.

What are the risks of buying ED medications from an online retailer?

By nature, buying ED medication from an online retailer means there is no in-person physical exam. This can be both a convenience and a risk. A physical exam gives the doctor an opportunity to identify factors that may be contributing to sexual dysfunction, including elevated blood pressure or Peyronie's disease.

In addition, all medications, including those for ED, have risks and side effects. These risks may be higher if you have certain health conditions. Again, without an in-person appointment the doctor cannot test for risk factors such as high cholesterol or blood sugar, which may increase risk. For this reason, it's important to answer all questions from a medical provider truthfully, accurately, and completely.

Finally, when you buy ED medications from an online retailer you can't be sure that the medication you receive contains the correct active ingredient in the correct dosage. For example, in October 2024 announcing that illegal online pharmacies were selling millions of unregulated, counterfeit prescription medications to tens of thousands of people in the U.S.

What are the benefits of buying ED medications online?

For many men, a main benefit of buying ED medications online is that an in-person doctor visit is not needed, so they can avoid any embarrassment of discussing ED face to face.

Another advantage of buying ED medications online is the convenience of being able to do so from your own home, without the need to travel to a doctor's office for an appointment. This can be especially helpful for those with mobility issues or who have trouble obtaining transportation to a pharmacy. It also can be more cost-effective, since follow-up visits with a provider are not required.

If you do decide to go this route, do your homework first. The FDA has a with tips to help you make safer decisions if you are buying prescription medications online.