Recent Concepts For Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction

Abstract

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is commonly encountered in the field of andrology, and is defined as an inability to attain or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. This pathological condition often bothers males over 40 years old. The prevalence of ED in males under 40 years old is about 1% to 10%, whereas it is 50% in the 40 to 70-year-old group. The pathophysiology of ED may be vasculogenic, neurogenic, hormonal, anatomical, drug-induced and/or Psychogenic. Many pathological factors are associated with ED, including neuropathy, androgen insufficiency, diabetes, and heart diseases. An increasing number of men are currently seeking help for ED due to the growing public awareness of the condition and the availability of effective, safe and user-friendly oral drug therapy. However, not all physicians evaluating and treating ED have appropriate background knowledge and clinical experience in sexual medicine. Thus, men with ED may receive little or no evaluation before treatment and will therefore not receive treatment for any underlying disease that may be causing their ED. Other men without ED may be requesting treatment simply to enhance their sexual performance.