DO YOU NEED THE MAGIC BLUE PILL?

MOST people have heard of Viagra, but it is actually one of four erectile dysfunction drugs available, which temporarily increase blood flow to the penis.

Viagra, Levitra and Spedra work on demand and last for about four to eight hours. Cialis works for up to 36 hours. Viagra, Levitra and Spedra are available on the NHS only for men with erectile dysfunction and one of a range of conditions including MS and prostate cancer. Men with impotence alone can get a generic version of Viagra (sildenafil) on the NHS. These drugs can have sideeffects and may not be suitable for those with cardiovascular disease or those who are on drugs for high blood pressure. Pelvic floor exercises, which women do after childbirth, can work just as well. A 2008 study found that 40 per cent of men who did such exercises regained full sexual function, with a further 30 per cent enjoying some improvement — the same success rate claimed for Viagra (for details, see next Thursday’s pull-out).