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Can Honey Packets Increase Sexual Performance?

February 27, 2025

Honey packets are trending on TikTok right now — but not for their usual health benefits. Some brands like Royal Honey VIP, claim to enhance male sexual performance, raising concerns among health experts.

We asked Jared Bieniek, MD, medical director of Tallwood Men’s Health, to weigh in.

Honey packets have hidden (and risky) ingredients.

The honey packets, which can be purchased over the counter, owe their effects to an ingredient called tadalafil — which also happens to be the active ingredient in Cialis, a prescription erectile dysfunction medication.

“Unfortunately, this is not a new issue; it’s the latest version of over-the-counter supplements that include undisclosed ingredients. While they might provide some benefit, they also can pose significant risks for some men,” explains Dr. Bieniek.

> Related: 4 Natural Treatments for Erectile Dysfunction

Drug interactions and side effects can cause problems.

Taking this supplement without medical guidance can result in side effects and dangerous drug interactions, especially for those with underlying health conditions.

“The biggest concern is potential interaction with medications like nitrates, often prescribed for heart disease or chest pain,” warns Dr. Bieniek.

Nitrates and tadalafil both dilate blood vessels, and when taken together, can cause a sudden, life-threatening drop in blood pressure.

Hidden tadalafil can also be risky for men with high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease. Users may also accidentally take too much, increasing the risk of side effects like headaches, vision changes or prolonged erections.

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When you should see a doctor.

If you’re struggling with erectile dysfunction, a doctor should be your first stop. Not only can they prescribe medication safely, they can also identify any underlying health issues that may be causing the ED.

“The causes of erectile dysfunction vary with age, but especially in younger men, we want to identify potential early cardiovascular disease, low testosterone or contributing psychogenic factors,” explains Dr. Bieniek.