When online prescribing stops

Why might an ED prescription be declined?

A decline is not a judgement about the patient or the legitimacy of the concern. It means the clinician cannot support that medication or the online route from the available information and current risk.

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The direct answer

An ED prescription may be declined because of a dangerous interaction, unstable health condition, urgent symptom, uncertain diagnosis, missing information or need for examination or testing.

Medication and heart-safety conflicts

Nitrate or popper use, unstable chest symptoms, very low blood pressure and some recent cardiovascular events can make common ED medicines unsafe or require another setting.

The history may point elsewhere

Pain, new curvature, neurological change, hormone symptoms, trauma or a sudden unexplained change may need examination or investigation rather than immediate medication.

Missing information can pause the decision

An unknown medicine, unreliable blood-pressure reading or unclear identity may prevent safe prescribing. Supplying accurate information may resolve some holds; others require in-person care.

A useful decline includes a next step

The response should explain the category of concern and direct the patient to a family doctor, pharmacist, specialist, urgent care or emergency services as appropriate.

Help for erection difficulties

ED symptoms and treatment options

Sildenafil and tadalafil help blood vessels relax, improving blood flow during sexual stimulation. That can make it easier to get and keep an erection firm enough for sex.

Trouble getting an erection?

Wanting sex but struggling to get firm enough can be a sign of ED. Find out how prescription treatment may help.

Difficulty getting an erection

Losing your erection during sex?

ED can also mean getting an erection but not keeping it. Learn about losing firmness and when medication may be an option.

Difficulty keeping an erection

Sexual stimulation is still needed. These medicines do not increase desire and are not suitable for everyone; a prescription is required.

When to seek medical advice

Medical references

Canadian Urological Association guideline: Erectile dysfunctionCanadian Urological Association

Ask BigBoyMD

Common questions, clear answers.

Can I resubmit different answers?+

Correct a genuine mistake, but do not hide information to obtain approval. Contradictory answers may require additional verification.

Does a decline mean I can never use ED medication?+

Not necessarily. It may mean more information, stabilization or in-person assessment is needed before a decision.

Will I be charged for medication after a decline?+

A declined prescription should not result in a medication order. Any separate cancellation rules should be shown before payment.

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Useful next steps

Eligibility Read more What We Ask Read more When to See a Clinician Read more