If you want to add some excitement to your sex life, you might be tempted to try male enhancement supplements, often marketed as penis enlargement products.
These dietary aids are sold without a prescription and manufacturers frequently promise big results, such as increased libido and a larger penis. These products are everywhere now. But are they effective?
Similar to some prescription ED drugs (such as Viagra), many alternative male enhancement supplements aim to boost blood flow to the penis.
If you have certain medical conditions — for example, liver disease or high blood pressure — your provider may recommend avoiding some over-the-counter or prescription options for ED.
Remember that, like other supplements sold in the United States, penis enlargement products aren’t regulated by the FDA. So it’s wise to research them thoroughly and consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns.
This piece examines a particular supplement called VirilX.
What is VirilX?
VirilX is marketed by Dignity Bio-Labs, located in Pacoima, California. The company produces a range of supplements that claim to support cognition, joints, prostate health, and more.
VirilX contains a combination of 21 ingredients:
- American ginseng
- avena sativa
- barrenwort (also called horny goat weed) leaves
- boron citrate
- catuaba bark
- cayenne
- eleuthero root
- ginger
- kola nut seed
- Korean ginseng
- L-arginine HCL
- L-citrulline
- maca leaves
- muira pauma
- nettle leaves
- niacin
- orchic substance
- pumpkin seeds
- sarsaparilla
- tribulus terrestris
- zinc
VirilX is labeled as a proprietary blend, so the company isn’t required to disclose the exact amounts of each ingredient. Since specific ingredient quantities aren’t always provided, check with your doctor before using it to ensure none of the listed components could cause an adverse reaction for you.
Pros and cons at a glance
Is VirilX right for you?
Always talk with your doctor before starting any natural supplement.
Erectile dysfunction — the difficulty getting or maintaining an erection — is common. Sometimes ED shows up as a lowered interest in sex.
If you’re noticing these signs, discuss them with your physician, says Dr. Puja Uppal, a board-certified family medicine doctor and chief medical officer at Think Healthy.
That said, a urologist is unlikely to advise a supplement like VirilX for ED. Erectile dysfunction is a multifaceted issue that reflects your general health, hormonal status, and mental state.
Uppal notes several medical issues that can underlie ED symptoms, such as:
- sleep apnea
- diabetes
- heart disease
- ADHD
- other mental health disorders
You might have an underlying condition without realizing it, so it’s best to consult your doctor instead of attempting self-treatment.
Uppal adds, “I never recommend my patients take non-FDA-regulated supplements, because we simply don’t know what’s in them.”
Does VirilX work?
Many of VirilX’s ingredients are traditional remedies thought to:
- improve circulation and energy
- reduce inflammation
- raise testosterone levels (which can drop with age)
- support penile tissue and related organs
However, scientific evidence supporting these assertions is inconsistent.
VirilX is also designed to support nitric oxide production. Nitric oxide is a signaling molecule integral to erections — it relaxes blood vessels so they dilate, allowing tissues to swell.
One VirilX ingredient, L-arginine, is a precursor to nitric oxide and affects the body’s smooth muscle tissue, including penile tissue.
Research into L-arginine’s role in treating erectile dysfunction has produced some encouraging results.
A 2019 review assessed multiple studies of L-arginine used alone or with other treatments for ED. The review found some evidence of effectiveness, but noted the number of studies is limited and many had small participant groups.
Risks and side effects
Just because VirilX’s ingredients are labeled “natural” doesn’t mean they’re free of side effects.
Ginseng, pumpkin seeds, and cayenne, for example, can cause mild irritation in certain people. Natural stimulants may trigger anxiety in those sensitive to caffeine-like substances.
If you take any medications, talk to your doctor before starting a supplement. Each component of VirilX could potentially interact with prescription drugs.
L-arginine, for instance, shouldn’t be used with antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications because it may raise bleeding risk. It may also interact with drugs for heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Some online users report diarrhea after taking VirilX; one reviewer mentioned stomach cramps.
How to use VirilX
VirilX bottles contain a 30-day supply. The maker recommends taking two capsules daily with 8 ounces of water.
Pricing
VirilX pricing varies if you buy multiple bottles at once, because bulk orders receive discounts. The prices below were listed on the VirilX site as of October 2022. You may also find it cheaper at large retailers like Walmart.
- One bottle: $54.95
- Three-bottle pack: $48.95 per bottle
- Six-bottle pack: $42.95 per bottle
Availability
VirilX is sold directly by Dignity Bio-Labs. The suggested daily dose is two capsules, and each bottle holds a month’s supply of 60 capsules. You can buy single bottles or discounted multi-bottle packs of six or more. Shipping is free within the United States and Canada.
VirilX is also listed on Amazon.com, sometimes at a lower price. Keep in mind, however, that sellers there may not be the manufacturer, and products bought from third parties might differ from Dignity Bio-Labs’ original formulation.
Company policies
The company promotes a 100% risk-free guarantee. If you’re dissatisfied with VirilX, Dignity Bio-Labs says you can request a refund within 90 days of purchase.
Free shipping is offered to customers in the United States and Canada.
Company reputation
Dignity Bio-Labs states that its products undergo third-party testing and that manufacturing occurs in a U.S. facility registered with the FDA in Utah.
The company site asserts, “The production facilities our products are produced in have met stringent performance standards regarding cleanliness and maintenance.”
Dignity Bio-Labs does not hold accreditation from the Better Business Bureau. As of October 2022, the BBB lists 19 complaints in the past three years, most pertaining to refund requests.
Customer reviews
User feedback about VirilX is mixed. Some people give it high marks and say they’ll buy it again, and some report increased energy for work or workouts.
Other reviewers say it didn’t help them. Several customers complain of a 15% restocking fee deducted from refunds, while others say they never received their orders.
One reviewer gave it four stars and commented, “It takes time to see the effects.”
On the Dignity Bio-Labs site, VirilX has over 3,700 ratings with an average of more than four stars.
There are no clinical trials or clinical data specifically for VirilX.
Alternatives to VirilX
If you have erectile dysfunction or suspect you might, the safest route is to see a doctor for a diagnosis. They can identify possible causes and propose a treatment plan.
Common medication options include:
- avanafil (Stendra)
- sildenafil (Viagra)
- tadalafil (Cialis)
- vardenafil (Levitra)
In the United States, these medications require a prescription. If you prefer a telehealth route, use a reputable vendor such as Roman, Hims, BlueChew, or Lemonaid.
Be cautious: ED medications are frequently counterfeited, and fake products can be hazardous.
ED devices
Some men benefit from vacuum pumps or constriction rings. Vacuum devices draw blood into the penis to create an erection, while rings help hold blood in the penis to maintain it.
These devices are available over the counter online, but consult your doctor first so they can recommend an FDA-cleared option.
When to talk with a doctor
If you’re unable to get or keep an erection long enough for sex, or if low libido is disrupting your sexual life, see your doctor.
Start with your primary care provider. They may refer you to a specialist like a urologist if needed.
ED is common, and clinicians are familiar with discussing it. Bring any questions you have and be open about your symptoms so your clinician can help you find appropriate solutions.
Frequently asked questions about VirilX
How long will I need to take VirilX to notice a change?
Some users report it takes several weeks of consistent use to observe any changes; others say it never worked for them.
Natural supplements affect people differently.
Are there any harmful long-term effects from taking VirilX?
It’s unclear, since clinical studies on VirilX are lacking. There isn’t enough research to determine potential long-term risks.
Can I take more than the suggested dose if two pills don’t help?
Follow the manufacturer’s recommended dose. Taking more could lead to adverse effects.
VirilX contains various herbs and roots, some known to cause allergic reactions. Ginseng, for example, has been linked to insomnia, headaches, and dizziness — and that’s only one of the 21 ingredients in VirilX.
Takeaway
It can be tempting to try VirilX or similar supplements if you’re dealing with low libido or signs of ED.
Keep in mind that dietary supplements aren’t regulated by the FDA, and manufacturers can keep proprietary blends and formulas confidential.
If you take prescription medications, don’t start any supplement without checking with your doctor. Symptoms of ED can stem from an underlying health condition unrelated to sexual function.
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