Direct-to-Consumer Erectile Dysfunction Medications: is the Convenience Worth the Cost?

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a highly prevalent disease, affecting over 24% of men in the United States. Factors such as privacy and accessibility often act as barriers to care for patients. With the emergence of telemedicine, direct-to-consumer (DTC) platforms have become popular avenues for patients to seek care. These platforms are especially attractive to patients with ED due to their promises of providing discrete and convenient care. Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors remain the most commonly prescribed therapy for ED. This review evaluates recent literature over the past five years to better understand the economics of PDE5 inhibitors offered through DTC platforms. RECENT FINDINGS: Studies have shown that while DTC companies offer convenience, these medications are offered at a significantly marked up price compared to more conventional means, such as an in-person clinical visit and brick and mortar pharmacies. While DTC platforms offer a promising model for improving access to ED care, their economic trade-offs and clinical limitations must be considered. Ongoing research and transparent pricing are needed to ensure that all patients with ED can make informed choices that best meet their clinical and economic needs.