Male impotence, also called erectile dysfunction, affects many men at some point in their lives. It is more common in the elderly, or in those with chronic health conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Cases may be physical or psychological in nature. Several medicines are FDA-approved for the treatment of male impotence.
Vardenafil
Vardenafil is a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitor. It relaxes the smooth muscle of the penis, which allows the blood vessels to become engorged with blood, thus causing an erection when desired. It is usually taken one hour before sexual intercourse is anticipated. Common side effects of vardenafil are facial flushing, headache and stomach upset. It is often considered to be the best option for people with diabetes or hard-to-treat erectile dysfunction.
Tadalafil
Tadalafil is another PDE-5 inhibitor. Its effects last longer than other drugs in its class, and it is often the drug of choice for men who have sex more than twice a week. It can be taken several hours before anticipated sexual activity, or a small dose can be taken on a daily basis. The "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide" indicates that common side effects of tadalafil include indigestion, facial flushing and headache.
Sildenafil
Sildenafil was the first PDE-5 inhibitor on the U.S. market. Absorption of this medicine is slowed if taken with a fatty meal. It should be taken one hour before anticipated sexual intercourse. The effects of sildenafil tend to wear off more quickly than the other drugs in its class. Common side effects are headache, stomach upset and facial flushing.
Alprostadil
Alprostadil is a treatment option for those who cannot take oral PDE-5 inhibitors. It is a hormone-like synthetic substance that relaxes the smooth muscle of the penis, allowing the engorgement of blood necessary for erection. The American Academy of Family Physicians explains that alprostadil is self-administered either as an injection into the penis, or as a suppository placed into the urethra. Those taking injections learn how to administer them in the physician's office, and then can inject themselves up to three times per week. Suppository insertion is also taught in the physician's office; they can usually be inserted up to twice a day. Potential side effects include swelling, pain and rash; the injections can also lead to scarring.
References
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Erectile Dysfunction
- National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Clearinghouse: Erectile Dysfunction
- "2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide"; Amy M. Karch, R.N., M.S.; 2010
