Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition that makes it difficult to get or maintain an erection. ExtenZe aims to improve symptoms, but the FDA does not recommend it for ED.

ED affects around 30 million people in the U.S. Some 2023 research estimates that 10.3 million insured U.S. males received an ED diagnosis and sought treatment.

On a global scale, a 2019 review found ED to have a 3% to 76.5% global prevalence, with high reports among young individuals.

Aside from prescription medications for ED, such as Viagra, numerous male enhancement products, including ExtenZe, reportedly help treat the condition.

This article will discuss what ExtenZe is, what ingredients it contains, and whether it works.

ExtenZe is a male enhancement dietary supplement containing natural ingredients. It reportedly helps boost sexual performance, desire, and pleasure by increasing the size of an erection. It contains a combination of ingredients that previous studies suggest may be effective in treating ED.

The manufacturer of ExtenZe suggests that its fast-acting, extended-release formula allows for improved blood flow to the penis, which may help increase the firmness and duration of an erection.

The company also compares the product to other enhancement methods and indicates it is a more affordable and safer option. It can cost around $35–$70.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warnings

The FDA has warned against buying Extenze Plus. This is because an FDA lab analysis found it to contain undisclosed sildenafil, which is the active ingredient in Viagra.

The FDA writes that sildenafil can interact with nitrate medication (used for diabetes, chest pain, high blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart disease) and make blood pressure dangerously low.

Medical News Today’s vetting

We take the safety of the products we feature in our articles seriously. ExtenZe has failed MNT‘s robust vetting process because of its inclusion in the FDA’s Tainted Sexual Enhancement Products list and because its marketing does not align with our industry and ethical best practice standards.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

People should carefully consider the benefits and drawbacks of ExtenZe before buying.

Pros

  • ExtenZe is available without a prescription.
  • It contains natural ingredients that may improve ED.
  • It aims to work quickly.
  • It is a fairly affordable product for ED.

Cons

  • The FDA recommends people not buy or use ExtenZe products due to undeclared sildenafil in its ingredients.
  • There are no scientific studies investigating the effectiveness of this product.
  • There is little scientific evidence that the declared ingredients in this product help ED.
  • ExtenZe is banned in sports due to its performance-enhancing dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) content.

ExtenZe is a proprietary herbal blend containing several active ingredients that may help treat ED. The company has a variety of products with different ingredients. Some of the active ingredients include:

L-arginine

L-arginine is an amino acid that may help develop erections easier and maintain them longer. Evidence suggests it may work in combination with other ED ingredients.

A 2021 study notes that combining phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors and L-arginine improved sexual function and testosterone levels more than monotherapy. A similar study reports a similar effect when combining L-arginine with sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)

GABA is a neurotransmitter that people may use for ED due to its vasodilatory properties. For example, an older 2017 study suggests that a 75% GABA and 25% sildenafil mixture may be the most effective combination of these ingredients to help treat ED symptoms.

However, data from a 2018 literature review shows that there is no significant data on the bioavailability of GABA in supplement form, meaning it may not reach the brain or act on the cells it is meant to.

Yohimbe

Also known as yohimbine, Yohimbe extract is an herbal supplement from the Pausinystalia johimbe tree that practitioners commonly use in West African medicine for ED. A 2018 study notes that yohimbine and ginseng were effective treatments for ED.

It works by blocking alpha-2 adrenergic receptors that inhibit erections. Yohimbe also promotes the release of nitric oxide that dilates blood vessels, allowing more blood into the penis.

Horny goat weed

Also known as yinyanghuo or epimedium, horny goat weed is a herbal medicine popular in China as a treatment for ED. Its active ingredient, icariin, is a PDE5 inhibitor, which causes arteries in the penis to relax, leading to increased blood flow to the area.

One older 2017 study suggests that icariin and daily sildenafil could treat neurogenic ED, while another study indicates that icariin may help treat diabetes-associated ED. However, both of these were rat studies and may not be applicable to humans. Plus, the benefits noted in the 2017 study may be attributable to sildenafil, a well-known treatment for ED.

Folic acid and zinc

Zinc is a necessary mineral for sperm formation — it works with folic acid to form DNA in sperm. A zinc deficiency may also relate to hypogonadism, where the testes have problems producing the sex hormone testosterone, sperm, or both. A 2018 study found that weight training coupled with zinc supplementation improved testosterone levels.

More research from 2018 found that low folic acid may be a risk factor for ED, while in another study, folic acid supplementation could help improve erectile function in people with ED.

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)

DHEA is a steroid hormone that is a precursor to both male and female sex hormones. A 2020 review notes that DHEA supplementation can significantly increase testosterone levels.

DHEA is known to improve mood, sexual function, and cognitive ability. However, doctors classify this hormone as a performance-enhancing drug, which is why professional athletes are not eligible to take ExtenZe.M

Pregnenolone

Pregnenolone is a steroid hormone that helps the body produce other hormones, such as testosterone and DHEA. Some people may use it as a supplement to increase testosterone levels.

There is no recent research investigating the benefits of pregnenolone on ED.

Tribulus terrestris

Tribulus terrestris is an herb people have used for centuries to treat ED by increasing a person’s libido.

A 2021 study suggests that Tribulus terrestris, ginseng, and L-arginine are suitable supplements for improving ED, possibly due to their positive effect on nitric oxide synthesis, which could enhance blood flow in the body.

Ginseng

Ginseng is a popular natural supplement for treating ED. A 2021 study notes that it effectively improves ED and reduces fatigue in individuals with prostate cancer. In addition, research from 2018 compared several herbal dietary supplements for ED and found ginseng to be an effective herbal treatment.

Maca

An older 2010 review looked at four randomized clinical studies investigating maca’s effect on various sexual conditions, including ED. Only one of these studies focused entirely on people with ED. It found that maca may have a mild positive effect compared with a placebo.

However, the authors of the review note that scientists have not replicated the studies and cannot definitively state that maca affects ED as a result.

Cnidium

There is very little research on Cnidium‘s effect on ED.

One older 2017 review states that two studies found that Cnidium has a vasodilating effect on rabbit penises. However, there is no evidence that this ingredient is effective in humans.

Muira puama

To date, there have not been any studies investigating the effect of Muira puama on ED in humans.

However, the authors of a 2020 review noted that Muira puama, alongside other ingredients such as ginger, may have a slight positive effect on ED in rats and humans. The authors also state that it is impossible to determine what effect this specific ingredient has, as the supplement tested contains numerous other ingredients.

Astragalus

Astragalus is an herb that some people believe may benefit the immune system and increase sperm count.

However, there is currently no evidence that astragalus has any benefits for ED.

Black and white pepper

There are currently no studies that investigate whether black and white pepper have any effect on ED.

However, cayenne pepper is a common ingredient in ED supplements that may have a vasodilating effect.

Pumpkin

2021 research suggests that raw and roasted pumpkin seeds may improve erectile function in rats by reducing oxidative stress in the penis. However, there is currently no evidence to support the use of pumpkin for ED in humans.

Stinging nettle

An older 2017 review notes that stinging nettle may have anti-inflammatory properties that could help reduce prostate inflammation. However, there is currently no evidence that stinging nettle reduces ED symptoms.

Fo-ti

Polygonum multiflorum, or fo-ti, is a plant native to China. It is an ancient herbal remedy for many conditions, including ED and infertility, and it is most commonly available as a supplement.

However, there is no evidence that fo-ti is effective for ED or any other condition.

Hops

There is currently no scientific evidence that hops benefit ED.

Boron

An older review from 2015 suggests that boron may increase free testosterone levels in males.

However, there is currently no evidence to suggest that boron affects ED.

While there are several studies on the efficacy of many of ExtenZe’s ingredients, such as ginseng, yohimbine, and L-arginine, there are currently no trials or studies specifically investigating the effectiveness of this product. The doses of these ingredients that researchers use in these studies may differ from the doses in ExtenZe.

Additionally, ExtenZe has mixed reviews online, with some users reporting anecdotal benefits.

However, the FDA notes that it does not regulate male enhancement supplements and that taking them can be harmful.

Additionally, while some ingredients may help improve ED symptoms, taking ExtenZe or any other male enhancement product will not increase a person’s penis size.

Some of ExtenZe’s ingredients may cause side effects. For example, Yohimbe may cause insomnia, anxiety, blurred vision, high blood pressure, palpitations, sweating, and chest pain. In addition, a 2021 study found an overdose of this substance may cause poisoning and even death.

An older 2015 study found that many male enhancement supplements containing yohimbine had inaccurate information on their labels. Only 9 of the 49 products undergoing tests provided information about its adverse effects.

Additionally, the FDA has warned against using ExtenZe, as it does not declare sildenafil as an ingredient. Sildenafil can interact with prescription drugs and may lower blood pressure to dangerous levels. It may also be responsible for any positive effects the supplement has on a person’s ED, as sildenafil is an FDA-approved medication for ED.

A 2019 case report also notes that hormones in male enhancement supplements may cause the development or worsen of male breast cancer. Another 2018 case study adds that ExtenZe may cause priapism, a prolonged and often painful erection.

Anyone experiencing an erection that lasts over 4 hours or over should seek emergency medical attention.

Aside from the lack of reliable sources regarding the efficacy of ExtenZe, the FDA does not regulate it or any other male enhancement supplements. This means these products may contain ingredients that could be harmful to health. Individuals who wish to take male enhancement supplements or have problems with sexual function should consult a doctor first.

For people who want to improve their sexual performance, there are several FDA-approved medications for ED, including:

  • Sildenafil (Viagra): This is the active ingredient in the popular ED medication Viagra. After consumption, sildenafil takes effect after 30 minutes.
  • Tadalafil (Cialis): The active ingredient in Cialis. It can remain effective for over 24 hours.
  • Vardenafil (Levitra): The active ingredient in Levitra. It is a PDE5 inhibitor, and sexual stimulation is necessary for it to help a person get an erection.
  • Avanafil (Stendra): The active ingredient in Stendra. It is another PDE5 inhibitor that people should take 30 minutes before sex.

Additionally, specific lifestyle changes may help improve a person’s sexual health, such as:

The following table compares ExtenZe to prescription ED medications.

ExtenZeViagra (sildenafil)Cialis (tadalafil)Levitra (vardenafil)Stendra (avanafil)
Has FDA approvalnoyesyesyesyes
Is FDA regulatednoyesyesyesyes
Backed by third-party or double-blind clinical studiesnoyesyesyesyes
Requires a prescriptionnoyesyesyesyes
Has FDA warningsyesnononono
Needs to be taken dailyyesnononono

The FDA recommends that people not buy or use ExtenZe supplements due to the organization finding undeclared sildenafil in ExtenZe during testing. Taking sildenafil unknowingly alongside nitrates can cause dangerously low blood pressure.

Instead, people who wish to purchase products to treat ED should contact a healthcare professional.

In addition to prescribing medication, doctors may recommend that a person make lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and increasing physical activity.

Learn more about home remedies for ED.

Below, we answer some of the top frequently asked questions about ExtenZe.

Is ExtenZe safe to use?

The FDA released an announcement in 2018 advising people not to buy or use ExtenZe Nutritional Supplement. The organization states that laboratory testing found that the supplement contained undeclared sildenafil, a prescription medication for ED.

Taking a supplement with undeclared ED medications is dangerous, as it can negatively interact with nitrates and cause dangerously low blood pressure. People may take nitrates as part of their treatment for diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease.

How long does ExtenZe last?

The company does not state how long the supplement lasts. However, it recommends men should take it every day for maximum results.

It is important to note that there is very little scientific evidence that the declared ingredients in this supplement may help ED symptoms.

What are the side effects of ExtenZe extended release?

ExtenZe lists acne, hair loss, facial hair growth in females, aggressiveness, irritability, and increased estrogen, as possible side effects. The company states a person should seek medical attention if they experience a rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or blurred vision.

Although the company lists side effects in females, it is unsuitable for females. Additionally, it is unclear which ingredients may cause the side effects ExtenZe lists.

How many ExtenZe pills should I take per day?

ExtenZe states a person should take one pill per day. However, there is no guarantee that ExtenZe will work, and there may be undisclosed medication in the pills, according to the FDA.

Does ExtenZe still contain sildenafil?

There has been no update as to whether ExtenZe has removed the undisclosed sildenafil from its pills.

What are the ingredients in ExtenZe tablets?

ExtenZe lists the following ingredients in its tablets:

  • Yohimbe extract (bark)
  • Tribulus extract (fruit)
  • Maca extract (Root)
  • Cnidium extract (seed)
  • GABA
  • L-Arginine HCL
  • Epimedium (aerial parts)
  • Muira puama extract (bark)
  • Pumpkin (seed)
  • Stinging nettle extract (root)
  • Astragalus (root)
  • Fo-ti extract (root)
  • Hops extract (flower)
  • Boron (as boron amino acid chelate)

However, the FDA has tested ExtenZe products and found undisclosed sildenafil, a well-known drug for ED. As such, people should avoid taking ExtenZe products as the company has not been transparent with its ingredients.

What are male enhancement pills good for?

Male enhancement pills are dietary supplements that aim to increase blood flow to the penis to help a person get and keep an erection. Some brands may claim that male enhancement pills can improve libido, performance, and stamina.

ExtenZe is a male enhancement supplement containing a proprietary herbal blend that claims to enhance sexual performance and increase libido and pleasure. However, male enhancement supplements do not have FDA approval and may contain ingredients harmful to a person’s health.

For safety, people with ED and even those keen to try male enhancement supplements should consult a healthcare professional first for supervision and guidance.