Current concepts in erectile dysfunction.

Overview

As the population ages, the prevalence of sexual dysfunction has steadily increased. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is defined as the consistent inability to obtain and/or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual relations. Complete ED is defined as the absolute inability to participate in penetrative relations at any stage. Results from the Massachusetts Male Aging Study of 1300 men between the ages of 40 and 70 years show 52% of men--1 in 2--have some degree of ED; 5% of 40-year-olds and 25% of 75-year-olds have complete ED. Taking a detailed medical history and performing a thorough physical examination are essential for the safe and effective treatment of men with ED. This article reviews the physiology and pharmacology of ED. Although effective therapies are available, including surgery, external devices, and subcutaneous penile injections, many find those modalities unacceptable. The oral agent sildenafil is now widely used but not without concern about specific health risks as well as lifestyle issues. This article also reports clinical trial results for new oral agents that will soon offer new options for men who cannot use or are dissatisfied with other therapies.