Part of “CHAPTER 117 – ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION“

The revolutionizing effect of improved therapeutics became readily apparent following the introduction of sildenafil (Via-gra), the orally administered agent for treating ED. The widespread public media attention produced a flood of patients presenting with ED and seeking this treatment from primary care physicians. Commonly, the drug is administered as first-line empirical therapy with little regard for cause or diagnosis. If it provides relief, its use is continued. The availability of this drug altered (a) the population seeking treatment, (b) the persons who administer treatment, and (c) the overall treatment algorithms used in medical practice. Interestingly, availability of this compound has helped verify the high prevalence estimates of previous studies.