Viagra, related drugs not a universal 'cure-all' for impotence

A new study has revealed mixed picture on the effectiveness of Viagra and other related drugs.

The University of Manchester and NatCen Social Research study shows that viagra and other related drugs are not a universal "cure-all" for impotence.

Drugs, clinically known as oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i), have become the first-line medical treatment option for sufferers of erectile dysfunction (ED), also known as impotence, since entering the UK market in 1998.

An abundance of studies has demonstrated the effectiveness of such drugs, but researchers at The University of Manchester, who have studied the responses of more than 2,600 English men (aged 50-87 years), suggest that restoring ED pharmacologically is not a "cure-all."

Lead author David Lee, found that older sufferers of ED who had used Viagra, or similar drugs like Cialis and Levitra, still expressed concern or dissatisfaction with their sex lives.

Lee added that opportunities are clearly being missed to improve treatment outcomes, with their nationally-representative data showing that gains relating to sexual activity and function are not mirrored by lower levels of concern and dissatisfaction with sexual health and relationships.

Lee noted that it is important that health professionals act on this and offer a more rounded approach to managing ED. This should include a well-informed patient with realistic expectations, support from his partner, and an improved assessment of any psychological or relationship issues that may exacerbate sexual concerns and dissatisfaction.

Lee added that they also found that PDE5i users and those men with untreated ED were more likely to report high blood pressure and diabetes, suggesting clinicians should be open to discussing with male patients the potential side effects on erectile function of commonly prescribed medications for chronic conditions such as hypertension and type 2 diabetes.

The study is published in the International Journal of Impotence Research.