You’re getting ready for an intimate moment, but despite your best efforts, your body doesn’t cooperate. Frustration sets in as you struggle to achieve or maintain an erection, leaving you feeling embarrassed, disappointed, and concerned. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects millions of men globally and can have a significant impact on your confidence and quality of life.
Maybe you’ve already tried medications like Viagra or Cialis, but they haven’t quite delivered the results you were hoping for. Perhaps the side effects, inconsistent effectiveness, or the timing factor make these pills less than ideal. Luckily, there are alternative treatments that can help you take control of your sexual health without oral meds. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, two of the most effective options available for ED are shockwave therapy and TriMix injections. But how do you know which treatment is right for you?
Description of treatments
Shockwave therapy
Shockwave therapy, also known as low-intensity extracorporeal shockwave therapy (Li-ESWT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate blood flow in the penis. The treatment involves applying a handheld device to the targeted areas of your body, delivering pulses of energy that encourage the growth of new blood vessels and improve overall blood flow. It works at the root cause of many cases of ED by addressing blood flow deficiencies and promoting vascular regeneration.
TriMix
TriMix is a compounded injection that combines three powerful medications—alprostadil, papaverine, and phentolamine—to help men achieve and maintain erections. These medications work by relaxing the smooth muscles and increasing blood flow to the penis, regardless of your natural arousal or nerve function. TriMix is typically administered through a small injection into the base of the penis, and the effects can last for up to an hour or more. Unlike oral medications, TriMix offers more immediate and controlled results.
Effectiveness
Shockwave therapy
Both shockwave therapy and TriMix have a high success rate, but they work in different ways. Shockwave therapy addresses the root cause of poor blood flow and provides long-term improvement in erectile function. Many men experience a noticeable improvement after just a few sessions, with effects lasting for months or even years without further treatment.
TriMix
TriMix, on the other hand, provides immediate results. If you need a reliable, fast-acting solution, TriMix can deliver within minutes of injection, making it an attractive option for men looking for more control over when they experience results. However, TriMix doesn’t offer long-term improvements and needs to be used before each sexual encounter.
Invasiveness
Shockwave therapy
Shockwave therapy is non-invasive—no needles, medications, or recovery time. It’s a comfortable, in-office procedure that allows you to return to your normal activities immediately. For men who prefer to avoid needles, Shockwave therapy may be a more appealing option.
TriMix
TriMix, by contrast, requires you to inject the medication into the penis. While this might sound uncomfortable, many men report that the injection is relatively painless when administered correctly. Still, it’s important to consider your comfort level with this type of treatment.
Side effects and risks
Shockwave therapy
Shockwave therapy has minimal risks. Some men may experience mild discomfort during treatment or temporary redness, but these effects are typically short-lived and minor. There’s no downtime, and the risk of serious side effects is extremely low.
TriMix
TriMix injections carry a slightly higher risk profile. Common side effects include mild pain or bruising at the injection site. In rare cases, men can experience priapism, which is a prolonged and potentially painful erection that requires medical attention.
Convenience
Shockwave therapy
Shockwave therapy is delivered in a series of treatments over several weeks. Once completed, the results can last for a long time without requiring ongoing therapy. This makes it a more convenient option for men looking for a “set it and forget it” approach to treating ED.
TriMix
TriMix, on the other hand, is episodic. You need to inject yourself before each sexual activity, which means keeping the medication on hand and going through the injection process every time. If spontaneity is important to you, this may be a drawback of TriMix.
Which treatment is right for you?
Choosing between shockwave therapy and TriMix comes down to personal preference, comfort level, and the specifics of your condition. If you’re looking for a long-term, non-invasive solution that addresses the underlying causes of ED, shockwave therapy may be your best bet. On the other hand, if you want a fast-acting option for immediate results, TriMix could be the answer.
At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, our team will guide you through the options and help tailor the best treatment plan for your needs. Whether you’re leaning toward shockwave or TriMix, we’re committed to helping you reclaim control over your sexual health. You can also combine the treatments—use TriMix injections to achieve firm erections for sexual encounters while undergoing a series of shockwave therapies that will help you address the root cause and stop taking TriMix over time. Schedule a consultation today to explore your options.
