Written by Danielle Winston, Fortune Recommends Writer
If you’ve experienced erectile dysfunction (ED), getting treatment through a telehealth platform may help you find a solution from the comfort of your own home. While ED is common—approximately 30 million men in the United States are affected—almost 50% of men with ED surveyed by our team said they waited years before seeking treatment and nearly 77% said their mental health was impacted. (1)
“While there are a few different types of male sexual dysfunction disorders, including diminished libido and ejaculatory disorders, erectile dysfunction is the most common type of sexual dysfunction in men,“ according to Dr. Aneesha Dhargalkar, MD. “Erectile dysfunction has been specifically linked to depression, stress, and relationship issues. These psychosocial factors are so integral to the understanding of individual erectile dysfunction issues that the American Urological Association recommends that all men who present with ED undergo psychologic evaluation.” (2)
To help you find the right platform for your needs, our team of experts tested Roman (also known as Ro), an affordable and comprehensive men’s telehealth company that offers treatment for erectile dysfunction. We’ve spotlighted Roman’s treatments, pricing, how products work, and the steps involved in using the service.
“The connection between your psychological and physical well-being is profound, and resolving ED can substantially enhance your overall quality of life,” said LeMeita Smith PhD, LPC, NCC, director of clinical services at United Health Services in Binghamton, New York.
Most popular Roman ED Treatment
The most popular ED treatment available on Roman’s website is Roman Sparks (also known as Ro Sparks). This treatment has a fast-acting formula, offering reliable results within a short time frame. Its effectiveness and convenience make it our top pick as well. Read on for detailed expert insights and why it’s the most popular choice.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Our picks for the best Roman ED Treatments
Compare Roman ED Treatments
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| Sparks | Daily Rise Gummies | Generic Viagra | Viagra | Generic Cialis | Cialis | |
| Rating | ||||||
| Price | Starting at $48/month | $89/month | Starting at $4 per 25 mg capsule | Starting at $90 per 25 mg capsule | Starting at $11 per 5 mg tablet | Starting at $8 per 2.5 mg tablet |
| Key ingredients | Sildenafil, tadalafil | Tadalafil | Sildenafil citrate | Sildenafil citrate | Tadalafil | Tadalafil |
| Dosage | One tablet every 24 hours (as needed) | One fruit-flavored gummy a day | One tablet every 24 hours (as needed) | One tablet every 24 hours (as needed) | One tablet every 24 hours (as needed) | One tablet every 24 hours (as needed) |
| Side effects | Flushing, headache, nasal stuffiness, nausea, dizziness, upset stomach, and priapism | Headache, dizziness, stuffy nose, flushing, back pain, and muscle pain. | Stuffy/runny nose, flushing, headaches, heartburn, dizziness, muscle aches, and nausea | Stuffy/runny nose, flushing, headaches, heartburn, dizziness, muscle aches, and nausea | Headache, upset stomach, back pain, muscle aches, stuffy or runny nose, flushing, and pain in leg or arm | Headache, upset stomach, back pain, muscle aches, stuffy or runny nose, flushing, and pain in leg or arm |
Key product features
What you should know
Ro Sparks is a fast-acting ED treatment that impressed us with its consistent results. It typically works within 30-60 minutes and offers flexibility without the need for daily use. Most users report minimal side effects, like mild headaches, and find it to be a discreet and effective option that provides good value compared to similar treatments.
- Ro Sparks is a pill that combines the two leading active ingredients in ED medicines, sildenafil (Viagra) and tadalafil (Cialis), to provide maximum benefits.
- Administration of the pill is sublingual, which means it is absorbed into the bloodstream from under the tongue.
- A subscription costs $12 per dose, but monthly subscriptions require four to ten doses. Simply put, Ro Sparks costs between $48 and $120, depending on the chosen subscription.
- Priapism is a potential side-effect, which is a condition where an erection doesn’t subside and lasts longer than a few hours, leading to potential loss of the penis if not treated.
Ro Sparks overview
Ro Sparks ED stands out for its fast-acting formula and effectiveness. It’s designed to provide on-demand performance without the need for daily dosing. Based on extensive research and user feedback, this product has proven to be a reliable option for men seeking flexibility and discretion in their ED treatment. Below, we break down key aspects of Ro Sparks, from its product construction to expert insights, helping you make an informed decision.
Specs
| Price | $48 – $120 (depends on plan) |
| Form | Tablet |
| Dose | One every 24 hours (as needed) |
| Dosage amount | 55 mg (sildenafil), 22 mg (tadalafil) |
| Key ingredients | Sildenafil, tadalafil |
| Cost per dose | $12 |
| Side effects | Flushing, headache, nasal stuffiness, nausea, dizziness, upset stomach, and priapism |
Signing up
To get Ro Sparks, you first have to answer some questions about your medical history and erectile dysfunction symptoms in the online provider evaluation, which typically takes 20 minutes to complete. Within 24 hours of submitting your evaluation, you can expect to hear back from a provider. The medication should arrive at your door within four to seven days if approved.
Product design and formulation
The Ro Sparks tablet is designed to dissolve quickly for rapid absorption in the body. Its compact size makes it easy to take discreetly, and the formula kicks in within 30-60 minutes, giving users more control over when to expect results. One notable feature is the balance between efficacy and convenience—Ro Sparks doesn’t require daily consumption, making it a flexible option for those who prefer not to take medication regularly. The formulation includes a blend of active ingredients that enhance blood flow.
Features
While other ED treatments may require daily use or longer wait times, Ro Sparks offers flexibility and control. You only need to take it when you plan to engage in sexual activity, making it more convenient for those who don’t want to commit to a daily regimen. Additionally, it’s discreet, easily portable, and designed for quick dissolution, which makes it highly user-friendly.
Cost
Ro Sparks is competitively priced within the ED treatment market, with subscriptions starting at $48. While some other treatments might have a lower per-pill cost for daily use, Ro Sparks provides the convenience of only needing to take it when necessary, which can translate into savings for those who prefer not to use it every day.
Dosing
One thing to consider with Ro Sparks is its dosing. This medication contains 55 mg of sildenafil and 22 mg of tadalfil. An appropriate starting dose of sildenafil is 50 mg; you can take up to 100 mg per pill. For tadalafil, the recommended starting dose is 10 mg, up to 20 mg as needed. So this medicine does contain higher doses of tadalafil and lower doses of sildenafil, meaning it will take a little longer to take effect but will last longer. In addition, the 22 mg of tadalafil is slightly higher than the recommended 20 mg max per pill dose. Finally, keep in mind that Ro Sparks only has one formulation of its drug with no option for a decreased or increased dosing regimen. This may be important for those patients who have significant side effects or suboptimal results with the drug.
Side effects
The most common side effects of the active ingredients (sildenafil and tadalafil) in Ro Sparks are headaches, nasal stuffiness, flushing, dizziness, and upset stomach. Both of these medications are phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors that work the same way to initiate and maintain an erection. Therefore, these medications’ side effects are often the same and can become potentially severe when used together in Ro Sparks. This is because the drugs are synergistic, meaning that the effects of the two drugs in combination are more powerful than the individual effects of each drug.
Most side effects are mild if they occur, but PDE-5 inhibitors like sildenafil and tadalafil have the potential for more serious side effects in rare cases.
These serious side effects can include low blood pressure and priapism, a prolonged erection lasting four hours or more. “While rare, an erection that lasts more than four hours is a medical emergency and requires a visit to the emergency department,” warns Dr. Dhargalkar. “Never take more than the amount prescribed to you by your provider. If you have any severe side effects, seek emergency medical attention immediately.”
Do not take Sparks more than once in a 24-hour period or within 24 hours of taking any other ED medications or PDE-5 inhibitors, such as tadalafil or sildenafil. It’s essential to consult your doctor before starting any new medication.
What customers are saying
On Trustpilot, Ro (Roman) has a “great” company rating. Because Ro produces various healthcare products, the reviews mention other products. The customers who use Ro Sparks love its efficacy.
“Sparks is an improvement upon sildenafil alone. In my case, I noticed fewer side effects (I have had mild skin flushing, stuffy nose, and peripheral vision issues). Also, in my case, my erections not only last longer, but I notice I have been able to get erections quicker (less refractory period) and can have multiple erections and multiple ejaculations in one day. Thank you for this product!”
Mike O., Trustpilot review
Ro products generally work, but we noted some customers need clarification on their pricing model.
“This company is not transparent with its pricing at all,” says a verified Trustpilot reviewer, Jennifer Drake-Croft. “I felt very mislead about the cost and they wouldn’t refund my money after I learned it was going to be $450 a month. There are less expensive companies out there that are transparent with their pricing.”
Note that this pricing is not specifically for the Ro Sparks, but it’s important to double-check pricing before ordering.
We’ve featured Ro Sparks in:
- The best Viagra alternatives of 2024
- Over-the-counter erectile dysfunction treatments and alternatives
- Blink Health ED review 2024
Who Ro Sparks is recommended for:
Ro Sparks is ideal for men who are looking for a fast-acting, convenient ED treatment that doesn’t require daily usage. It’s perfect for those who want flexibility, reliability, and minimal side effects. Here’s a breakdown of who would benefit most from using Ro Sparks:
- Men seeking flexibility: Ideal for those who don’t want to take a daily pill and prefer to use an ED treatment only when needed.
- Busy individuals: Perfect for those with unpredictable schedules, as it works quickly within 30-60 minutes of taking.
- Men sensitive to daily medications: Recommended for those who prefer fewer side effects and don’t want the commitment of taking a daily medication.
- Those looking for a discreet option: Ro Sparks is small and portable, making it easy to take discreetly without drawing attention.
- Individuals looking for reliable results: Men who value consistent, fast-acting results with minimal planning will find Ro Sparks to be an excellent choice.
Who Ro Sparks is not recommended for:
While Ro Sparks is a great solution for many, it may not be suitable for everyone. Some individuals might find this ED treatment less effective based on their unique needs or medical conditions. Here’s a look at who Ro Sparks might not be the best fit for:
- Men who need daily treatment: If you require daily management of ED symptoms for consistent performance, a daily medication may be more appropriate.
- Individuals with severe heart conditions: Men with cardiovascular issues or those taking nitrates should avoid Ro Sparks, as it could interact negatively with their medications. (6)
- Those with allergies to specific ingredients: If you have known allergies to any of the active ingredients in Ro Sparks, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before use.
- Men seeking a long-lasting effect: Ro Sparks is designed for short-term use, so those looking for a medication with a longer duration of effectiveness might prefer a different option.
You should also avoid taking Sparks if you are taking a class of medications called soluble guanylate cyclase (GC) stimulators, such as riociguat. (7) Sildenafil, when combined with these medications, can cause dangerously low blood pressure.
How we scored Ro Sparks
Our experienced team of health experts evaluated Ro Sparks based on key criteria, including effectiveness, ease of use, side effects, and overall value. Below is a breakdown of how Ro Sparks scored in each category, giving you a clear picture of its performance across different metrics.
Ro Sparks performed exceptionally well in terms of ease of use and flexibility thanks to its fast-acting formula and on-demand functionality. It also scored highly for discreteness, making it a convenient choice for users. The effectiveness and onset time met expectations, delivering reliable results within 30-60 minutes. However, mild side effects were reported, like headaches and flushing, which slightly lowered its overall side effects score. Finally, while Ro Sparks offers great value for its convenience, other daily ED treatments may be more cost-effective in the long run for those who need consistent, everyday support.
What are Roman’s products?
Roman is an online-based men’s health company offering prescription ED medications and online consultations. There’s never a membership cost or contract to order. If approved for medicine, you can choose automatic shipping that arrives monthly or quarterly. On the website, you’ll find brand names and generic medication options.
Roman’s offerings for ED
Roman’s alternate approach to ED treatment is streamlined and accessible for men at all life stages. Once you’ve completed the intake survey and provided your medical history, you’ll have the chance to speak with a healthcare professional to explore your medical options. Here’s a breakdown of available medications:
Viagra
Viagra was the first ED medication to receive FDA approval and remains one of the most popular on the market today. (3) Designed to take 30 minutes to an hour before becoming sexually active, it lasts three to five hours. Use as needed, and no more than once daily.
Generic Viagra (sildenafil)
Sildenafil provides the same benefits as name-brand Viagra and has the same side effects, but it’s available at a fraction of the price. (4)
Cialis
FDA-approved Cialis became available in 2003, just five years after Viagra. (5) It may take up to 60 minutes to take effect but can last up to 36 hours. Use as needed, or take daily.
Generic Cialis (tadalafil)
Tadalafil offers the same benefits and side effects as branded Cialis but at a much lower price. (5)
Daily Rise Gummies
The Daily Rise Gummies are a daily supplement designed to support men’s overall sexual health. Each gummy contains 7mg of tadalafil, the same active ingredient as Cialis. Tadalafil is considered one of the longest-lasting ED medications available, staying active in the body for over 24 hours. (5) The most common side effects you may experience from these gummies are headache, indigestion, back pain, muscle pain, nasal congestion, flushing, and pain in a limb.
Ro Sparks
Ro Sparks is a compound drug that consists of both tadalafil and sildenafil in one sublingual tablet. By combining medications in a quick-dissolving method, the treatment is designed to work faster and last longer. Ro Sparks does not have a generic version available on the market. Remember, Ro Sparks is not FDA-approved, and potential unknown side effects and medical concerns may apply.
How to get medication for ED with Roman
The first step to treatment with Roman is an online assessment detailing your medical history and symptoms. You’ll also need to show your blood pressure reading within the last month. Some states may require additional information. Usually, within 24 hours, a representative from Roman will contact you. If you qualify for treatment, you’ll receive a prescription. ED medications ordered online will be shipped in discreet packaging within four to seven days, or you can opt to pick up prescriptions in person at your local pharmacy.
Expert opinion
Roman offers a discreet option for men to consult with healthcare professionals about their sexual health and get the treatment they need for ED. We especially appreciate that Roman offers a free online consultation and appointments with a doctor or nurse practitioner, who can order lab tests to try and understand the cause of your ED.
“Roman went very smoothly and fast. Instead of making an appointment and waiting a week and a half, I was able to log on. In 45 seconds you get a recommendation of dosage, milligrams, etc.… They were always there when I had questions. So it cuts out the middle man of primary care.”
Focus group quote
Additionally, if you’re looking for variety, we like that Roman offers both branded and generic versions of Viagra (sildenafil) and Cialis (tadalafil), as well as tadalafil in gummy form. The brand also markets its Ro Sparks, which blends both the active ingredients in Cialis and Viagra. But while the FDA separately approves all the drugs, compound drugs can be sold but are not FDA-approved. (14) Advances in science have shown that sublingual (under-the-tongue) medicine formulations, like Ro Sparks, create a faster path to absorption than a traditional pill. (15) But without science to confirm the safety of a medicine, be cautious when considering off-label use of drugs. (16) However, it’s important to note that combination therapies have been previously described for erectile dysfunction pills with favorable outcomes. (17)
Unlike some other platforms, Roman offers different dosing options. For instance, you can get Viagra in doses of 25 milligrams, which can allow for more tailored regimens for people 65 and older. (12)
While your health provider will determine which drug and dose you take, you have the option to take the generic version. The obvious benefit of generic compared to the name brand is price. For instance, generic Viagra purchased through Roman can be up to 95% lower than name-brand Viagra. Are you wondering if a generic drug is truly the same as its branded counterpart? Generic FDA-approved medicines function the same as their name-brand versions. (18) These drugs must adhere to the same quality, dosing, effectiveness, and safety. Side effects and risk factors also apply.
“Medication management (phosphodiesterase Type 5 inhibitors) of ED in older male patients has been shown to be safe in most patients, including those with cardiovascular diseases, with the contraindication being in patients under nitrate treatment or those at high risk of cardiovascular disease that need restriction of physical activity,” Reutter says.
If you’re curious which ED medicine makes more sense for you and their differences, Michael Green, MD, chief medical officer at Winona, a wellness center based in Austin, Texas, explained, “Tadalafil has a longer duration of use compared to sildenafil. It can provide effectiveness for up to 36 hours. Some individuals may find that tadalafil has a more favorable side effect profile or is better tolerated than other PDE5 inhibitors.”
Most ED medications share similar side effect profiles, with tadalafil having higher rates of myalgias (muscle pain) and gastroesophageal reflux, noted Kevin Campbell, MD, an assistant professor of medicine in the Department of urology at the University of Florida College.
“My doctor wrote a prescription for the generic, and it worked great. I’ve stayed using the same one, and didn’t see any reason to pay more for the same meds.”
Focus group quote
Ultimately, Roman has many benefits, including communication with healthcare providers through chat, video, or messaging, making it easy to ask questions, get feedback, and provide all-around better care. Our focus group members who used Roman appreciated how easy it was to use the platform and the discreet packaging upon arrival. Unlike other platforms, Roman offers different dosing levels, which may appeal to a broader range of men in various stages of life or with health issues. While Roman’s ED treatments may be an easy and cost-effective way to initiate treatment, some reviews on the Better Business Bureau complain about customer service and medication wait times. Still, reviews on Trustpilot reveal many happy customers who say Roman helped them address various health issues.
Additional products from Roman
Roman offers a variety of products designed to support men’s health and wellness in different ways. From prescription ED treatments like Sildenafil and Tadalafil to non-prescription supplements for testosterone support, Roman provides a broad range of options to cater to individual needs. In addition, both name-brand and generic forms of Viagra and Cialis come in a variety of dosage options, which can be beneficial when first starting out with ED medication so the right dosage for you can be determined. Whether you’re looking for fast-acting ED solutions or long-term sexual health support, Roman’s diverse product line ensures there’s a solution that fits your lifestyle and health goals.
Key product features
Sparks vs. Daily Rise Gummies
Both Sparks and Daily Rise Gummies are designed to support men’s sexual health, but they differ in their approach, from fast-acting medication to daily supplements. Below, we compare these two products across key factors like cost, features, side effects, and efficacy.
- Cost: Ro Sparks is available as a subscription, starting at $48 a month for four tablets. However, Daily Rise Gummies cost around $89 a month for a 30-day supply. Since Sparks is as-needed, you get less for more money, but its stronger and faster effects may be worth it over a milder daily supplement.
- Features: Ro Sparks is fast-acting and taken as needed, typically effective within 30-60 minutes. Gummies, on the other hand, are milder daily supplements designed for continuous use. According to the brand’s website, it may take two to five days for maximum results.
- Side effects: Due to Sparks’s active ingredients, some users report mild side effects, such as headaches and flushing. Alternatively, the gummies tend to have fewer reported side effects with more natural ingredients, though some users may experience mild digestive discomfort.
- Efficacy: Ro Sparks is highly effective for immediate performance support, delivering results when needed without the commitment of daily use. The Daily Rise Gummies focus more on long-term sexual health and performance, with gradual improvements over time rather than immediate effects.
We recommend the Daily Rise Gummies for:
- Those who want to improve their sexual health and performance over time rather than seeking immediate results.
- Men who prefer a more natural approach to enhancing sexual wellness with fewer synthetic ingredients.
- Individuals who prefer to incorporate a daily supplement into their wellness regimen for consistent benefits.
- Those who may be sensitive to stronger medications and prefer a gentler option with fewer side effects.
- Men who want a convenient, chewable supplement that can easily fit into their daily routine without the need for pills.
Key product features
Sparks vs. Generic Viagra
Both Ro Sparks and Generic Viagra (also known as Sildenafil) are designed to treat erectile dysfunction, but they differ in key areas like speed, duration, and how they’re used. Below, we compare the two products across cost, features, side effects, and efficacy.
- Cost: Ro Sparks is available via subscription, starting at $48 a month for four tablets, while Generic Viagra is generally more affordable, with prices starting at $4 per pill, depending on the dosage.
- Features: Ro Sparks is a fast-acting treatment taken as needed, typically working within 30-60 minutes. Generic Viagra also works quickly, but it is more widely recognized as the active ingredient in many ED medications, offering multiple dosage options.
- Side effects: Both Ro Sparks and Generic Viagra may cause mild side effects like headaches and flushing. However, some users may also experience nasal congestion or dizziness with Sildenafil.
- Efficacy: Both are highly effective for treating ED, delivering results within a similar time frame. Ro Sparks offers a convenient, branded option, while Generic Viagra provides a cost-effective, proven solution with flexible dosing options.
We recommend Generic Viagra for:
- Men looking for a more cost-effective solution to treat ED.
- Those who prefer the flexibility of various dosage options.
- Individuals seeking a well-known and trusted ED medication with a proven track record.
- Men who prefer fast-acting results similar to Ro Sparks, but with greater affordability.
Key product features
Sparks vs. Viagra
Both Ro Sparks and Viagra are designed to provide effective ED treatment, but they differ in brand recognition, price, and available formulations. Below, we compare these two products in terms of cost, features, side effects, and efficacy.
- Cost: Ro Sparks is priced starting at $48 per month for four tablets, while Viagra is generally more expensive, with prices starting around $90 per 25 mg pill due to the brand name and legacy.
- Features: Ro Sparks and Viagra share the same active ingredient, Sildenafil, however Sparks includes Tadalafil. Both offer fast-acting results within 30-60 minutes of ingestion. Viagra is the original, brand-name ED medication, while Ro Sparks provides a more modern, branded alternative with comparable efficacy.
- Side effects: Both products may cause similar side effects, including headaches, flushing, nasal congestion, and dizziness. These are common for medications containing Sildenafil.
- Efficacy: Both Ro Sparks and Viagra are highly effective for treating ED, delivering reliable results with similar onset times. However, Viagra holds the advantage of being a well-established and globally recognized ED medication, while Ro Sparks offers a newer, cost-effective option with comparable performance.
We recommend Viagra for:
- Men seeking the original, brand-name ED treatment with a trusted reputation.
- Individuals who value a long-standing, globally recognized medication for their ED needs.
- Those who prefer the proven efficacy of the original formula behind many modern ED medications.
- Men who are comfortable with the higher cost associated with brand-name Viagra and are seeking a premium ED solution.
Key product features
Sparks vs. Generic Cialis
While both Ro Sparks and Generic Cialis are effective ED treatments, they differ in usage, duration, and flexibility. Below, we compare the two across key categories like cost, features, side effects, and efficacy.
- Cost: Ro Sparks costs $48 monthly for four tablets designed for on-demand use. Generic Cialis typically starts at $11 per 5 mg pill, offering longer-lasting effects, making it a cost-effective option for frequent use.
- Features: Ro Sparks is a fast-acting treatment intended for occasional use, delivering results within 30-60 minutes. Generic Cialis stands out for its long-lasting effect, often referred to as the “weekend pill,” as a single dose can remain effective for up to 36 hours, allowing greater spontaneity over an extended period.
- Side effects: Both medications may cause similar side effects, such as headaches, flushing, and indigestion. However, because Generic Cialis stays in the system longer, side effects may persist longer.
- Efficacy: Ro Sparks is highly effective for immediate results when needed, whereas Generic Cialis offers extended effectiveness, making it ideal for those seeking a longer window of opportunity without the need to time their medication closely with sexual activity.
We recommend Generic Cialis for:
- Men who want a longer-lasting ED solution that offers flexibility and spontaneity.
- Individuals who prefer a single dose that provides up to 36 hours of efficacy, minimizing the need for frequent dosing.
- Those who may engage in sexual activity multiple times over a longer period and want continuous support.
- Men who prefer the option of a more frequent low-dose regimen for ongoing performance without planning around individual doses.
Key product features
Sparks vs. Cialis
Cialis and Ro Sparks are both effective treatments for erectile dysfunction, but they differ in their duration of action and flexibility in use. Below, we compare these two options across cost, features, side effects, and efficacy.
- Cost: Ro Sparks is available as a subscription, starting at $48 a month for four tablets. Ro Cialis features costs ranging from $8 per pill, and its long-lasting effects often justify the price for those who need extended coverage.
- Features: Ro Sparks is fast-acting and taken as needed, typically effective within 30-60 minutes. Cialis, with its active ingredient Tadalafil, offers much longer-lasting results—up to 36 hours—allowing for greater spontaneity without the need to time your dose too closely with activity.
- Side effects: Both Ro Sparks and Cialis share potential side effects such as headaches, flushing, and back pain. However, since Cialis can last longer in the system, side effects may also linger, but they are generally mild.
- Efficacy: Both medications are highly effective in treating ED, but Cialis shines for those looking for a long action window. While Ro Sparks is great for immediate, short-term support, Cialis offers more flexibility over an extended period, making it a go-to choice for those who want long-lasting performance without the need to plan dosing as closely.
We recommend the Cialis for:
- Men who prefer longer-lasting ED treatment that offers up to 36 hours of effectiveness with a single dose.
- Individuals who want flexibility and spontaneity, as Cialis allows for more freedom to engage in sexual activity over a longer time frame.
- Those seeking a trusted, well-known solution with a proven track record in treating erectile dysfunction.
- Men who may want to consider a daily low-dose regimen for consistent performance without having to plan around individual doses.
Roman vs. competitors
When considering Roman’s ED treatments, comparing them to similar offerings from other providers is helpful. If Roman’s solutions don’t fully align with your needs, you may find better options with one of these competitors.
Hims offers a comprehensive range of ED treatments, including Sildenafil and Tadalafil, often at lower prices, and also includes access to hair loss and mental health services. If you prefer telemedicine, which focuses on flexibility, Plushcare provides personalized treatment plans and a wide range of healthcare services beyond ED, with the convenience of easy prescription management. For those seeking budget-friendly options, Blink Health delivers prescription ED treatments at competitive prices with frequent discounts, making it a great choice for individuals prioritizing affordability over brand recognition.
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| Roman | Hims Cialis | Plushcare | Blink Health | |
| Rating | ||||
| Price | $4 – $120 (depends on plan) | $958/month | $16.99 per month for membership | $10 per prescription; $10 consultation fee |
| FDA approved | Yes, except Ro Sparks | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Form | Tablet and Gummy | Tablet | Tablet | Tablet |
| Dose | Varies | One tablet every 24 hours (as needed) | Varies | Varies |
| Key ingredients | Sildenafil, tadalafil | Tadalafil | Replace | Varies |
Special considerations of erectile dysfunction medication for older adults
As we get older, we may be more sensitive to side effects, and drugs may remain in our systems for longer periods. (8) In addition, older patients tend to take additional medications more than younger patients. These medicaitons may interact with ED drugs in adverse ways. Before starting an ED program, discuss your health background with your healthcare provider. Depending on your medical history, ED programs are not advisable for everyone. Unfortunately, Roman does not provide information for people ineligible for ED drug treatment. But other treatments are available if you’re unable to take ED medication, including penile injections, vacuum erection devices, and discreet penile prostheses. (9)
It’s important to note that ED medications can cause headaches, flushing, blurred vision, prolonged erection, and other side effects. (10) ED drugs also shouldn’t be taken with cardiac drugs (nitrates), because they can cause a drop in blood pressure. Additionally, people with liver or kidney disease, low blood pressure, and heart or blood vessel problems will want to discuss with their physicians before starting ED medications. (11) Many older patients suffer from these above medical conditions.
While most of Roman’s medications are FDA-approved, active ingredients like sildenafil or tadalafil can contain additional or varied doses that may affect you differently. Be sure to read about the possible side effects of sildenafil and tadalafil, and make sure your healthcare provider has a full list of your current medications before subscribing. (12, 13)
As we age, we are at greater risk for certain health conditions, so it is essential to talk to your health care provider first. Christian Reutter, DO, an osteopathic physician at Pelvic Rehabilitation Medicine in New York City recommended taking an individualized approach, providing a comprehensive history, and getting a thorough exam by your provider before starting any treatment.
FAQs
Is Roman the same as Viagra?
No, Roman is a company specializing in men’s sexual health. Viagra is the brand name of the drug sildenafil, both of which are available for prescription through Roman.
How long does it take for Roman ED to work?
Roman offers different treatment options, including generic and name-brand Viagra and Cialis, as well as a combined compound formulation called Ro Sparks, which the FDA does not approve. Depending on which medicine you choose and your personal health, these medications can take 15 minutes to one hour to take effect.
What is the best ED treatment on the market?
Medications vary in benefits and side effects. Depending on your health needs and desires, sildenafil or tadalafil have been proven highly effective and may be worthwhile to explore. Always talk to your health care provider before starting any medication.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Our experts
Dr. Aneesha Dhargalkar
Dr. Aneesha Dhargalkar is a board-certified emergency medicine physician currently practicing in West Chester, PA. She graduated cum laude from John Hopkins University in 2002 and from Jefferson Medical College in 2006. After this, Dr. Dhargalkar attended and completed a three-year residency program in emergency medicine at Temple University Health System. Dr. Dhargalkar is the director of her hospital’s wellness provider program and sits on the executive board of both the Chester County Suicide Prevention Task Force and the Unionville Chadds Ford School District Education Foundation.
Dr. Fatema Dawoodbhoy, MBBS, BSc
Dr. Dawoodbhoy MBBS BSc (she/her) is an Academic Doctor working in London with a keen interest in Obstetrics & Gynaecology. She is a double graduate from Imperial College London with an MBBS and a BSc in Management (First Class Honours).
Heather Morsellino
Heather Morsellino is a freelance writer and fact-checker with over four years of experience in healthcare. She has worked as a pharmacy technician, emergency room medical scribe, and anesthesia technician in the operating room and will finish her ADN within the following year.
Danielle Winston
Fortune Recommend Writer
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