Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common issue that affects a huge percentage of men. It can be caused by a number of factors, including health conditions, certain medications, and psychological issues. For some, it’s a minor, occasional problem. For others, it’s a significant, ongoing concern that can damage their self-esteem and relationships.
There are plenty of products marketed to men who experience ED. One of those products is ExtenZe, a male enhancement supplement that’s sold over the counter and online. ExtenZe — including the formulation ExtenZe Extended Release — isn’t approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat ED.
The company that makes ExtenZe has received warnings from the FDA about undeclared ingredients and unsupported claims. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at ExtenZe, its ingredients, and whether there’s any evidence that it works. We’ll also discuss potential risks and alternative treatments for ED.
What is ExtenZe?
ExtenZe is a male enhancement supplement. The company that makes it says that it’s formulated to improve sexual performance and help with the symptoms of erectile dysfunction (ED).
The company claims that ExtenZe can give you these benefits:
- Increased libido
- Improved erection quality
- Enhanced sexual stamina
You can purchase ExtenZe online or in retail stores. The cost is approximately $35–$70.
However, it’s important to know that ExtenZe hasn’t been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). That means that it hasn’t been rigorously tested for safety or efficacy. Because of this, it’s hard to know whether the ingredients are safe, or if the product will work the way the manufacturer claims.
Ingredients in ExtenZe Extended Release
ExtenZe Extended Release contains a laundry list of ingredients, each touted for its potential benefits in improving male sexual health. Let’s break down some of the key players and see what the science says.
Key Ingredients and Their Purported Benefits
ExtenZe lists L-Arginine, Yohimbe, and Ginseng as key ingredients.
L-Arginine
L-arginine is an amino acid that plays a role in the production of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide helps relax blood vessels, potentially improving blood flow. Better blood flow is sometimes cited as a potential benefit for erectile dysfunction (ED). L-arginine is sometimes cited as a potential supplement.
Yohimbe
Yohimbe is an herb traditionally used as an aphrodisiac. A 2018 study indicated that yohimbine, a compound derived from Yohimbe, was an effective treatment for ED.
Ginseng
Ginseng has been studied for its potential benefits in improving ED and overall health. A 2018 study found ginseng effective for ED, and a 2021 study suggests it’s a suitable supplement. Another 2021 study even noted that ginseng effectively improves ED and reduces fatigue in individuals with prostate cancer.
Other Ingredients
ExtenZe also contains a host of other ingredients, including:
- Horny goat weed
- Folic acid and zinc
- Tribulus terrestris
- Maca
- Cnidium
- Muira puama
- Astragalus
- Black and white pepper
- Pumpkin
- Stinging nettle
- Fo-ti
- Hops
- Boron
These ingredients are included to potentially contribute to various aspects of male sexual health, like libido, testosterone levels, and overall energy.
Proprietary Blend and Lack of Transparency
ExtenZe uses a proprietary blend, meaning the specific amounts of each ingredient aren’t disclosed. This lack of transparency makes it difficult to determine the exact dosage of each ingredient and, therefore, assess its potential effectiveness or safety.
Ingredients of Concern
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
DHEA is a hormone that converts into testosterone and estrogen in the body, similar to some ingredients found in products like Burn Evolved and Test Boost Max. It’s banned in many sports because it can unfairly enhance athletic performance.
FDA Warnings and Safety Concerns
It’s crucial to be aware of some serious safety concerns surrounding ExtenZe.
Undeclared Sildenafil
The FDA has found that ExtenZe products sometimes contain sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, without declaring it on the label. This is a big deal for a couple of reasons.
First, sildenafil can interact dangerously with nitrate medications, which are often prescribed for chest pain. This interaction can cause a sudden and severe drop in blood pressure.
Second, men with heart conditions need to be extremely cautious with sildenafil. The added strain on the heart could be risky.
Potential Side Effects
Because ExtenZe contains a cocktail of ingredients, it could potentially cause a range of side effects. It’s tough to pinpoint exactly what you might experience, as individual reactions can vary.
It’s worth noting that a 2018 case study linked ExtenZe to priapism, a prolonged and painful erection. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
Interactions with Medications
The potential for interactions with nitrate medications is a major red flag. If you’re taking any prescription drugs, it’s vital to talk to your doctor before even considering ExtenZe.
Lack of Regulation
The supplement industry isn’t as tightly regulated as the pharmaceutical industry. This means that the quality and safety of supplements can be all over the place. It’s hard to know exactly what you’re getting in a product like ExtenZe, and that’s a risk in itself.
Does ExtenZe actually work?
Here’s the deal: there’s not much scientific evidence that ExtenZe actually does what it claims to do.
Limited Scientific Evidence
When it comes to treating erectile dysfunction with ExtenZe, the studies just aren’t there. You won’t find a lot of hard data to back up those big promises.
Studies on Individual Ingredients
Okay, so what about the ingredients themselves? As we talked about earlier, some of the individual ingredients in ExtenZe have been studied. For example, some research suggests that L-arginine might help with blood flow, which is important for erections. But, and this is a big but, just because one ingredient might do something, doesn’t mean the whole product will work the same way. It’s like saying because you have flour, sugar, and eggs, you automatically have a perfect cake. It’s just not that simple.
Anecdotal Evidence vs. Scientific Evidence
You might read reviews or hear guys talking about how ExtenZe worked for them. That’s called “anecdotal evidence.” It’s basically just personal stories. While those stories might be true, they aren’t the same as scientific evidence. Scientific evidence comes from carefully designed studies that test whether something really works. Personal stories can be influenced by a lot of things, like the placebo effect (thinking something will work, so it does) or just plain chance.
So, while it’s tempting to believe those stories, it’s important to remember that they don’t replace real scientific proof.
Alternative Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction
If you’re dealing with erectile dysfunction, it’s good to know there are options besides supplements like ExtenZe Extended Release, and it’s important to consider what the science says about other alternatives like Joymode.
FDA-Approved Medications
The FDA has approved several medications for ED. You’ve probably heard of some of them:
- Viagra (sildenafil)
- Cialis (tadalafil)
- Levitra (vardenafil)
- Stendra (avanafil)
These medications work by increasing blood flow to the penis. They don’t create an erection automatically, but they make it easier to get one when you’re sexually stimulated.
It’s important to remember that these medications are only available with a prescription from a doctor. That’s because they can have side effects and might not be safe for everyone. Talk to your doctor to see if one of these medications is right for you.
Lifestyle Changes
Sometimes, simple changes in your lifestyle can make a big difference in your ED. These include:
- Quitting smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels, which can make it harder to get an erection.
- Increasing physical activity: Exercise improves blood flow and can boost your overall health.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese can contribute to ED.
Other Treatments
If medications and lifestyle changes aren’t enough, there are other treatments to consider:
- Vacuum erection devices: These devices use suction to draw blood into the penis.
- Penile implants: These are surgically implanted devices that can create an erection.
- Therapy and counseling: Sometimes, ED is caused by psychological factors like stress or anxiety. Therapy can help address these issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ExtenZe work the same as Viagra?
No, ExtenZe and Viagra work differently. Viagra is a prescription medication containing sildenafil, a PDE5 inhibitor, which increases blood flow to the penis. ExtenZe, on the other hand, is a non-prescription supplement with a blend of herbal ingredients. Its effectiveness hasn’t been as rigorously studied or proven as prescription medications like Viagra.
How long does it take extended release to work?
The time it takes for extended-release supplements or medications to work can vary. Factors like metabolism, dosage, and individual body chemistry play a role. Generally, you might expect to notice effects within a few weeks of consistent use, but it’s essential to follow the product’s instructions and consult a healthcare professional.
Which tablet is best for erectile dysfunction?
The “best” tablet for erectile dysfunction depends on individual needs and medical history. Prescription medications like Viagra (sildenafil), Cialis (tadalafil), and Levitra (vardenafil) are commonly prescribed and have proven effectiveness. It’s best to consult with a doctor to determine which medication is most suitable for you.
How long do male enhancement pills stay in your system?
The length of time male enhancement pills stay in your system depends on the ingredients and your body’s metabolism. Herbal ingredients may clear more quickly than synthetic compounds. Always check product labels and consult a healthcare professional for specific information.
What pill is better than Viagra?
Whether a pill is “better” than Viagra is subjective and depends on individual factors. Cialis (tadalafil) is one alternative that offers a longer duration of action compared to Viagra. Some men may find Cialis more convenient due to its extended effectiveness. Consulting with a doctor is the best way to determine the most appropriate medication for your needs.
Wrapping Up
It’s important to remember that ExtenZe is not approved by the FDA, and it could carry some health risks that you should consider.
If you’re dealing with erectile dysfunction, the best thing to do is talk to a healthcare professional. They can give you personal advice and help you explore treatments that are approved by the FDA.
It can be tempting to look for quick fixes, but it’s generally not a good idea to rely on supplements that aren’t regulated. It’s best to be informed and make smart choices about your health.
Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, prescription medications like Viagra or Cialis, vacuum erection devices, or even surgery. There are many options available, and a healthcare provider can help you find the right one for you.