An update of the International Society of Sexual Medicine's guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of premature ejaculation (PE)

Glans penis augmentation using hyaluronic acid for the treatment of premature ejaculation: a narrative review

Premature ejaculation (PE) is the most common self-reported male sexual disorder estimated to occur in approximately 5% of men in the general community. Penile hypersensitivity is thought to be an etiologic factor of lifelong PE. The role of glans penis augmentation using injectable hyaluronic acid (HA) for the treatment of PE is debatable and remains to be confirmed. The creation of a barrier at the level of the glans, by the bulking agent blocking accessibility and inhibiting the tactile stimuli to reach the dorsal nerve of the penis (branch of the pudendal nerve) receptors, is the theory behind the effectiveness of HA in the field of PE. We reviewed the literature using PubMed and searched for the following keywords: premature ejaculation, glans penis and HA, over the last 20 years. Five studies were found. These studies showed that HA injection could significantly increase IELT (2.43- to 4.46-fold), and this increase could persist for long term (up to 5 years). No serious adverse reactions were reported besides transient discoloration and swelling of the glans that recovered to normal within 2 weeks. Many techniques were discussed, their effectiveness remains to be proved. However, proper patient selection and mastering the esthetics of the technique, by adequate surgical training, is necessary in order to achieve the optimal results.

New approach to patients with premature ejaculation: Do social cognition and attachment profiles play a role in premature ejaculation?

Premature ejaculation is the most prevalent male sexual dysfunction and causes significant individual and relational distress in subjects. This study aimed to investigate the underlying psychopathologies of premature ejaculation using theory of mind, empathy and attachment parameters and included 91 participants: 46 with lifelong premature ejaculation and 45 without any ejaculatory complaints. Arabic index of premature ejaculation and stopwatch intravaginal ejaculatory latency times were recorded from all subjects in order to evaluate ejaculatory function. We used reading mind in the eyes, empathy quotient and experiences in close relationships-revised tasks to evaluate social cognitive and attachment profiles of the participants. We compared differences between groups in terms of task performances and symptom severity. Premature ejaculation patients showed significantly low levels of theory of mind abilities as well as empathic skills compared to controls. Although groups did not differ significantly in means of attachment avoidance parameters, premature ejaculation patients had significantly higher levels of attachment anxiety parameters. There was no correlation between symptom severity and social cognition and attachment scores in premature ejaculation patients. These results suggest that patients with premature ejaculations may suffer from significant social cognitive deficits and have anxious but not avoidant pattern of attachment. These results may implicate insights in terms of pharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatments of premature ejaculation.

Comparison of the safety and efficacy of the on-demand use of sertraline, dapoxetine, and daily use of sertraline in the treatment of patients with lifelong premature ejaculation: A prospective randomised study

This study compared the safety and efficacy of the on-demand (OD) use of sertraline (50 mg), sertraline (100 mg) and dapoxetine (30 mg), and the daily use of sertraline (50 mg) in the treatment of patients with premature ejaculation (PE). This prospective randomised study involved 120 lifelong PE patients (intravaginal ejaculatory latency time [IELT]: <1 min; Arabic Index of Premature Ejaculation [AIPE] score: < 30) without secondary causes of PE, identified between March 2018 and May 2020. Patients were divided into 4 groups (30 patients per group) and treated for 8 weeks. Assessments were conducted using the AIPE form as a diagnostic tool. Sertraline (50 mg, daily; 196.7 ± 115.5 s) and sertraline (100 mg, OD; 173.3 ± 97.0 s) had similar IELT and AIPE scores. The latter groups had better results in comparison with sertraline (50 mg, OD; 100.5 ± 54.4 s) and dapoxetine (93.7 ± 53.5 s; p < 0.01). Sertraline (100 mg, OD) had a similar efficacy to that of sertraline (50 mg, daily) and was more effective than sertraline (50 mg, OD) and dapoxetine (30 mg, OD). Sertraline (100 mg, OD) can be considered in the treatment of lifelong PE treatment, having tolerable side effects.

Circumcision in childhood and male sexual function: a blessing or a curse?

Male circumcision (MC) is the first planned surgical procedure ever performed. Nowadays many of these procedures are not necessarily carried out in a medical environment, therefore the real number remains unknown but it is estimated that one third of the men are circumcised. Some authors argue the negative impact of MC on men psychology and sexual life, but objective data are lacking. The purpose of this review is to summarize in the best possible way the literature to clarify this matter. A non-systematic narrative review was performed including articles between 1986 and 2019. The search for literature was carried out between July 2019 to October 2019 and any updates as of March 30, 2020. Although many authors support the hypothesis that circumcision status has an impact on sexual functioning, a negative outcome has not yet been entirely proven. Circumcision might affect how men perceive their body image, and consequently affect their sexual life. We should consider this when analysing the literature about MC and sexual dysfunction, as many of the results are based on specific populations with different attitudes towards this procedure. Sexual function consists of many elements that not only relate to measurable facts such as anatomy, somatosensory and histology. An objective evaluation of the impact of circumcision on sexuality is still challenging, as it affects a wide variety of people that confront sexuality differently due to their sociocultural and historical background. Therefore, individuals can either perceive their circumcision status as a blessing or a curse depending on the values and preferences of the different communities or social environments where they belong.

Comparative efficacy and safety of drug treatment for premature ejaculation: A systemic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis

To assess the comparative efficacy and safety of drug treatments for premature ejaculation. A systemic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis were executed on randomised controlled trials of drug interventions for premature ejaculation. Intravaginal ejaculation latency time and related adverse effects were outcome measures. A total of 44 RCTs with 11,008 patients were included in our NMA. In therapy <8 weeks, the ranking of drug efficacy was topical creams >selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)+ phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor (PDE5i) > PDE5i > sertraline > clomipramine > paroxetine > dapoxetine 60 milligram (mg) > dapoxetine 30 mg > fluoxetine>citalopram > duloxetine>placebo. In therapy ≥ 8 weeks, the ranking of drug efficacy was SSRI + PDE5i > topical creams > paroxetine > tramadol > PDE5i > fluoxetine > dapoxetine 60 mg > dapoxetine 30 mg > clomipramine>citalopram > placebo. For total adverse events, clomipramine, dapoxetine 30 mg, dapoxetine 60 mg, paroxetine, PDE5i, SSRI + PDE5i and tramadol had a higher risk than placebo. In conclusion, in ≥8 weeks of therapy, the drug combination of SSRI + PDE5i was the most effective PE therapy. In <8 weeks of therapy, the efficacy of local anaesthetics was best. All drug treatments were ranked better than placebo. In general, drugs with better effects had more obvious side effects.

Smartphone-Based Therapeutic Exercises for Men Affected by Premature Ejaculation: A Pilot Study

INTRODUCTION

Smartphone-delivered healthcare interventions allow patients to access services on demand when needed, improving motivation and compliance. However, the use of mobile health apps has been scarcely explored in sexual medicine.

AIM

To evaluate the effects of integrating psychological treatment for premature ejaculation (PE) with a mobile coaching app that offers therapeutic exercises on the patient's smartphone.

METHODS

This study comprised 35 heterosexual men with primary psychogenic PE (mean age 34 years, standard deviation = 9.15). All patients entered a cycle of 15 sessions of psychodynamic psychotherapy integrating behavioral therapy, each lasting about 45 minutes. The patients were randomly assigned to 2 groups, each of which performed daily homework exercises (physiotherapy exercises for reinforcing the pelvic floor muscles and cognitive exercises for distancing from sexual failure.) The first group (15 patients) received verbal and printed instructions only (treatment as usual-TAU), whereas the second group (17 patients) experienced the exercises with guidance from the mobile app (app). In both groups, the exercises started after the seventh session. Patients were advised to perform the exercises 3 times a day for 3 months.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The primary outcome measures were the Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool and the Premature Ejaculation Profile.

RESULTS

Analysis of the data revealed significant pre-post improvements in Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool and Premature Ejaculation Profile scores for the app group compared with those of the TAU group (P < .01). The frequency of patients with no-PE condition for the app group after treatment was significantly higher than the frequency of patients with no-PE condition for the TAU group (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Results suggest that a mobile coaching app performs better than TAU in improving both the behavioral skills of ejaculatory delay and sexual self-confidence within a psychological treatment for PE. Future studies should collect follow-up data and explore the potential of mobile coaching apps in combined pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy interventions. Optale G, Burigat S, Chittaro L. et al. Smartphone-Based Therapeutic Exercises for Men Affected by Premature Ejaculation: A Pilot Study. J Sex Med 2020;8:461-471.

A Comparative Study of the Efficacy of Levosulpiride versus Paroxetine in Premature Ejaculation

Background:

Premature ejaculation (PME) can be defined as a lack in the normal voluntary control over ejaculation. It is the most common sexual dysfunction encountered by the male populace. In general, these patients presents with distress. Hence, a novel treatment to eliminate their problem is required. Although the role of SSRI has already been established, the high discontinuation rate and other types of sexual dysfunctions associated with SSRIs reduce their efficacy in controlling this menace. Levosulpiride is a new drug indicated in treatment of PE.

Aims and Objectives:

The objective is to study the efficacy of levosulpiride; paroxetine and their comparison in patients of PE.

Methodology:

Index of premature ejaculation (IPE) and intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) were used. A total of 36 patients (18 in each group) were included. The patients were assessed at baseline; at 4 weeks’ and at 8 weeks’ interval.

Results:

On comparison the score of IPE in domains of ejaculation control, sexual satisfaction, and the total score of IPE were statistically significant on all the three visits. However, the distress score of IPE and the IELT score were statistically not significant between the two groups.

Conclusion:

No doubt both agents are efficacious in patients of PME but paroxetine is more efficacious than levosulpiride. At the same time, levosulpiride is a lesser studied and used drug hence more research should be done for it.

Association between 5-hydroxytryptamine transporter gene-linked promoter region polymorphism and the susceptibility of lifelong premature ejaculation: a meta-analysis involving 1,604 subjects

The relationship between 5-hydroxytryptamine transporter-linked promoter region (5-HTTLPR) gene and lifelong premature ejaculation (LPE) risk was discussed widely for the last few years, which was still controversial and remained to be explored. We performed the meta-analysis with 8 reliable research, which were searched in the following databases: PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library. We also performed random and fixed effects models to evaluate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals respectively. By pooling all included studies, we found that SS genotype of 5-HTTLPR polymorphism was linked with significantly higher PE risk in Caucasian population (OR =0.635, 95% CI: 0.417–0.958, I²=0.311, P=0.035), and S-allele of 5-HTTLPR polymorphism increased the risk of LPE significantly in Asian population (OR =0.656, 95% CI: 0.539–0.799, I²=0.435, P<0.001). However, no significant was observed between 5-HTTLPR gene polymorphism and LPE risk in overall studies. Further studies were anticipated to be done.

Vibrator-Assisted Start-Stop Exercises Improve Premature Ejaculation Symptoms: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Premature ejaculation (PE) is associated with decreased quality of life, lower confidence and self-esteem, and higher levels of depression, anxiety, and interpersonal difficulties. Here we investigated the effectiveness of vibrator-assisted start-stop exercises for treatment of PE, and whether the treatment effect could be enhanced by an additional psychobehavioral intervention. Fifty participants with a mean age of 41.7 years were included and randomized into two treatment groups and a waiting list control group. Participants were instructed to perform start-stop exercises while stimulating the penis with a purpose-made vibrator, 3 times a week for 6 weeks. Additionally, participants in one of the treatment groups received additional psychoeducation and performed mindfulness meditation-based body scan exercises three times a week. Data were gathered through online questionnaires before and after treatment, as well as 3 and 6 months after treatment. The interventions reduced PE symptoms with large effect sizes (partial η2 = .20 across the three groups, d [95% CI] = 1.05 [.27, 1.82] and 1.07 [.32, 1.82] for treatment groups compared to waiting list control group). The additional psychobehavioral intervention did not further reduce PE symptoms, but did decrease PE-associated negative symptoms such as levels of sexual distress, anxiety, and depression. No side effects were reported. Vibrator-assisted start-stop exercises can be offered as an adequate treatment option for PE.

Advantages and limitations of current premature ejaculation assessment and diagnostic methods: a review

Premature ejaculation (PE) is the most common male sexual dysfunction worldwide. Characteristic symptoms of PE are unexpected, rapid, complete ejaculation, which negatively impacts the sexual act for both sexual partners. Despite the existence of a definitive PE classification system and various diagnostic tools, diagnosing PE is still challenging due to the limitations associated with the assessment of this condition. Hence, it is necessary to review the diagnostic methods and processes of the physical examination that are currently performed in the medical setting. It is also important to analyze any controversial results of each main PE assessment method and propose novel diagnostic and assessment methods. To date, it is important to verify the accuracy of the PE evaluation method due to the ambiguity of previous definitions and proven invalidity of current examining techniques. Clinical diagnosis is based mainly on the patient history, patient-reported outcome scores, and diagnostic tools. Introduction of intravaginal ejaculatory latency time, penile biothesiometry, and the electrophysiological test provided objective means of evaluating PE. Due to the controversial and inconclusive findings in PE psychogenic and neurogenic etiology, utilizing a single parameter to describe and qualify PE using the aforementioned diagnostic methods provides valuable, but insufficient information for PE diagnosis. There is still a lack of a feasible and plausible means of objective measurement to evaluate the ejaculatory latency and control over ejaculation. Consequently, a comprehensive penile stimulation that simulates sexual intercourse could be useful to record intensity and duration parameters before the ejaculatory threshold, providing a more accurate method of describing and diagnosing PE versus a single chronological observation.

Association Between Lifelong Premature Ejaculation and Polymorphism of Tryptophan Hydroxylase 2 Gene in the Han Population

Introduction

Premature ejaculation (PE) is widely regarded as one of the most common sexual dysfunctions in men. The neurobiogenesis of PE is complex and involves the serotoninergic (5-HT) system.

Aim

In this study, we investigated whether polymorphisms in the tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) gene were associated with lifelong PE (LPE).

Methods

A total of 121 men diagnosed with LPE were recruited from our outpatient clinics and 94 healthy controls from the health examination center. Intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) was measured using a stopwatch. The PE diagnostic tool (PEDT) data were collected at the same time. All subjects with LPE and healthy controls were genotyped for polymorphisms in the TPH2 gene. Allele and genotype frequencies of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were compared between the patients and controls.

Main Outcome Measure

The main outcome measures are IELT and PEDT to diagnose LPE. The association of LPE with TPH2 gene polymorphisms in these areas was investigated.

Results

The IELT, PEDT scores, and education levels in the LPE group were significantly different from those in the control group. Statistically significant differences were found in the SNPs of SNV019 and rs4290270. The frequencies of the G allele and G/A genotype of SNV019 were significantly higher in the patients with LPE than in the controls (P = .045 and .037, respectively). The A allele and A/A genotype of rs4290270 were more frequent in the patients with LPE than in the controls (P = .037 and .049, respectively). In the dominant model of inheritance, the SNV019 polymorphism in the patients with LPE was significantly different from that in the controls (odds ratio [95% confidence interval] = 2.936 [1.066–8.084], P = .037). In men with LPE, there was no statistically significant association between genotype and median IELT.

Conclusion

The SNPs SNV019 and rs4290270 of the TPH2 gene seemed to be associated with LPE in the Han population. Men with the A allele of SNV019 or the T allele of rs4290270 may be less likely to suffer from LPE.

Fu X, Zhang X, Jiang T, et al. Association Between Lifelong Premature Ejaculation and Polymorphism of Tryptophan Hydroxylase 2 Gene in the Han Population. Sex Med 2020;8:223–229.

Progresses in pharmaceutical and surgical management of premature ejaculation

OBJECTIVE

Premature ejaculation (PE) is regarded as one of the most common male sexual dysfunctions. This review introduced several pharmaceutical and surgical methods for the management of PE. The definition, etiology, behavioral, and psychological therapy of PE were also discussed.

DATA SOURCES

"Premature," "ejaculation," or "sexual dysfuction" were used as the medical subject headings (MeSH) to obtain relevant articles before June 2019 on Pubmed, Google Scholar and CNKI. Most articles used were written in English and several Chinese articles were also cited.

STUDY SELECTION

Full-text articles of retrospective/prospective/randomized controlled trials were analyzed. Animal experiments and letters were excluded.

RESULTS

There are four PE sub-types: lifelong PE, acquired PE, natural variable PE, and subjective PE. Behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, medication, topical anesthetics, and surgery are currently used for the treatment of PE. However, all the above treatments have limitations. Therefore, novel ways should be investigated to more efficiently control PE.

CONCLUSIONS

The pharmaceutical therapy that is currently being used in clinical practice for the management of PE is still the main choice globally due to its good efficacy. Surgery may be a choice for patients who are resistant to medication. However, it should be performed cautiously.

Altered Functional Connectivity of Hypothalamus in Lifelong Premature Ejaculation Patients

BACKGROUND

As one of the most prevalent sexual dysfunctions in men, lifelong premature ejaculation (PE) often leads to patient distress. The hypothalamus is implicated in the ejaculatory control of healthy males. However, we do not know whether the hypothalamus-related intrinsic connectivity is altered in lifelong PE patients.

PURPOSE

To investigate abnormal intrinsic connectivity of the hypothalamus in lifelong PE patients compared with healthy controls (HCs).

STUDY TYPE

Prospective pilot study using cross-sectional data of patients and HCs.

SUBJECTS

Forty-seven lifelong PE patients and 30 HCs were included in this study.

FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE

3.0T MRI scanner for T₁ -weighted imaging using spoiled gradient recalled echo sequence and functional imaging using a single-shot gradient recalled echo sequence.

ASSESSMENT

Preprocessing of MRI data and hypothalamus-seeded functional connectivity (FC) computation were performed using DPABI4.1.

STATISTICAL TESTS

The two-sample t-test within SPM12 was adopted to examine possible alterations of intrinsic connectivity of hypothalamus in lifelong PE patients compared with HCs including anxiety and depression scores as covariates (false discovery rate-corrected, P < 0.05). The correlation analysis was then used to assess possible associations between the imaging findings and clinical features in the patient group (Bonferroni-corrected, P < 0.05).

RESULTS

Compared with HCs, lifelong PE patients had decreased hypothalamus-seeded FC in the left orbitofrontal cortex, bilateral insula, superior temporal cortex, superior temporal pole, middle temporal cortex, left fusiform, right parahippocampal gyrus, and right cerebellum. The intravaginal ejaculatory latency time positively correlated with the mean z-score from the hypothalamus-insula (r = 0.45) and hypothalamus-cerebellum (r = 0.48) intrinsic connectivity, separately.

DATA CONCLUSION

We have shown that hypothalamus-seeded FC alterations and the correlations between the aforementioned abnormal FC alterations and intravaginal ejaculatory latency time. The current findings may promote the understanding of the hypothalamus-related neural mechanisms involved in the abnormal ejaculatory information processing in lifelong PE patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

1 TECHNICAL EFFICACY STAGE: 3 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;52:778-784.

A bibliometric analysis of international publication trends in premature ejaculation research (2008-2018)

The incidence of premature ejaculation (PE) has been on the rise over the years. Thus, significant research efforts have been directed toward understanding the pathogenesis and hence treatment of PE. Here, we performed a comprehensive analysis of the worldwide trends in research outputs in the field of PE. This study investigated the universal findings of previous PE studies and the trending issues surrounding the condition. We employed the Web of Science Core Collection for data collection. The Excel (2016) and CiteSpace IV were used for information analysis. The information was categorized using journal names, institutions, research frontiers, citation reports, regions/countries, and authors. A sum of 886 publications concerning PE between 2008 and 2018 were identified as of July 6, 2019. The highest number of publications was identified in the Journal of Sexual Medicine published. The United States of America (USA) had the highest number of publications and H-index value. The highest co-citations were from Waldinger MD. The most common keyword was 'drug treatment'. A steady pattern was observed for PE publications done between the period of 2008-2018. Thus, the USA is at the forefront of research on PE research. The interesting advanced research frontiers were drug treatment, circumcision, and sertraline.

The efficacy of regular penis-root masturbation, versus Kegel exercise in the treatment of primary premature ejaculation: A quasi-randomised controlled trial

To explore the efficacy of regular penis-root masturbation (PRM) versus Kegel exercise (KE) in the treatment of primary premature ejaculation (PPE). This study was a prospective quasi-randomised controlled trial. Thirty-seven heterosexual males with PPE were selected according to the time sequence of outpatient consultations and the preliminary results of a pre-experiment and were assigned to an PRM group and a KE group. Differences in intravaginal ejaculatory latency times (IELTs) and premature ejaculation diagnostic tool (PEDT) scores were compared between the two groups. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University. Among the 37 PPE patients, 18 performed PRM and 19 patients performed KE. The IELTs of patients who performed PRM and KE were significantly prolonged before treatment, and the difference after treatment was statistically significant (p < .05). Compared with the KE group, the IELT prolongation effect in the PRM group was more significant PRM (p < .05). The PEDT scores of patients after performing PRM and KE were significantly lower than those before performing these exercises (p < .05). Compared with the KE group, the PEDT scores of the PRM group exhibited a greater decrease (p < .05). Thus, both PRM and KE have therapeutic effects on PPE. Compared with KE, PRM is more effective in the treatment of PPE.

Pelvic muscle floor rehabilitation as a therapeutic option in lifelong premature ejaculation: long-term outcomes

The aim of the study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes of pelvic floor muscle (PFM) rehabilitation in males with lifelong premature ejaculation (PE), using intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) and the self-report Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT) as primary outcomes. A total of 154 participants were retrospectively reviewed in this study, with 122 completing the training protocol. At baseline, all participants had an IELT ≤60 s and PEDT score >11. Participants completed a 12-week program of PFM rehabilitation, including physio-kinesiotherapy treatment, electrostimulation, and biofeedback, with three sessions per week, with 20 min for each component completed at each session. The effectiveness of intervention was evaluated by comparing the change in the geometric mean of IELT and PEDT values, from baseline, at 3, 6, and 12 months during the intervention, and at 24 and 36 months postintervention, using a paired sample 2-tailed t-test, including the associated 95% confidence intervals. Of the 122 participants who completed PFM rehabilitation, 111 gained control of their ejaculation reflex, with a mean IELT of 161.6 s and PEDT score of 2.3 at the 12-week endpoint of the intervention, representing an increase from baseline of 40.4 s and 17.0 scores, respectively, for IELT and PEDT (P < 0.0001). Of the 95 participants who completed the 36-month follow-up, 64% and 56% maintained satisfactory ejaculation control at 24 and 36 months postintervention, respectively.

Evaluation of the Mistakes in Self-Diagnosis of Sexual Dysfunctions in 11,000 Male Outpatients: A Real-Life Study in An Andrology Clinic

Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the initial request for sexual consultation with the final diagnosis and to evaluate the limits of the active andrological anamnesis concerning unclassified male sexual dysfunction. Methods: In this 12-year observational retrospective study, we collected data from patients referring to an andrological outpatient clinic, evaluating the requests, perceptions, needs, and self-diagnosis at their first visit and comparing them with the final diagnosis reached after a complete clinical, laboratory, and instrumental investigation. Results: A total of 11,200 patients were evaluated. The main request of andrological consultation was erectile dysfunction (ED) (52%), followed by premature ejaculation (PE) (28%), and low sexual desire (11.5%). Among the patients seeking help for ED, about 30% were ultimately found to have a different type of dysfunction and 24% were diagnosed with an “unmet need”, which included issues not present in the current nosography nonetheless affecting sexual and relational life. Among the patients referring for PE, the final diagnosis was lifelong PE for the large majority of them, regardless of whether initially they thought to have an acquired form. Several of those who sought consultation for acquired PE were frequently found to be able to compensate for lifelong PE by a subsequent coitus or were able to induce orgasm in the partner with different modalities. Among the patients referring for low sexual desire, only 57.5% were confirmed to have it; 23% had ED and 18.5% showed a raised threshold of penile sensitivity. Conclusions: The results of this study show that the reason for consultation is frequently misleading and raise the relevance of being aware of the so-called “unmet needs” and to discuss with the patient and the couple to explore the sexual history behind the self-diagnosis. These findings also suggest the need to expand the current taxonomy of male sexual dysfunctions.

Transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation to treat patients with premature ejaculation: phase II clinical trial

A phase II single-arm trial was conducted from June 2017 to October 2018 to evaluate the efficacy and safety of transcutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation (TPTNS) for premature ejaculation (PE) treatment. Twelve men with PE and no prior treatment were enrolled, one was withdrawn and 11 subjects provided data for the main outcome. TPTNS consisted of 30-min sessions of the application of 20 Hz with a pulse amplitude of 200 µsec. The intensity was adjusted based on individual sensibility. The participants received 3 weekly sessions for 12 consecutive weeks. Follow-up continued for 9 months after therapy completion. The main outcome was a threefold increase in the intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) at week 12. Eleven patients completed therapy, and 54.5% (p = 0.037) showed tripled baseline IELT scores at week 12. The IELT increased 4.8-fold, 6.8-fold, and 5.4-fold at weeks 12, 24, and 48, respectively. One episode of constipation was reported, and one patient reported a sensation of heat in the leg during one therapy session. The findings suggest that TPTNS therapy delays ejaculation in patients with lifelong premature ejaculation, with no serious secondary effects. Controlled trials with larger sample sizes are needed to verify these results.

Frequency of etiological factors among patients with acquired premature ejaculation: prospective, observational, single-center study

Although premature ejaculation (PE) is a common male sexual dysfunction, its pathophysiology has not been fully elucidated. Several medical problems such as erectile dysfunction, depression, anxiety, hormonal disorders and chronic prostatitis may play a role in the etiology of acquired PE. This study aims to evaluate the frequency of these etiologic factors among patients with acquired PE. Between May and July 2016, 53 men with acquired PE were included in the study. Self-estimated intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) of these patients was recorded along with their medical history and physical examination findings. Moreover, 5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5), premature ejaculation profile (PEP), anxiety and depression scales (STAI-1, STAI-2, and BECK), and chronic prostatitis symptom index (NIH-CPSI) were administered. Fasting plasma glucose, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin, total and free testosterone, total prostate specific antigen, thyroid and thyroid stimulating hormone levels were measured. Urine analysis and 2 cup tests were also studied. Mean age of the patients was 42.41 ± 11.14 (22-60). Mean duration of the PE complaint was 34.18 ± 36.76 (3-144) months. Mean IELT time of the patients was 38.28 ± 30.79 (3-180) s. Of the patients; 69.81%, 62.26%, 56.60%, 45.28%, 30.19%, 24.53%, 16.98%, 15.09%, and 7.55% had depression, chronic prostatitis, erectile dysfunction, anxiety, diabetes mellitus, abnormal FSH or LH, hypoprolactinemia, hyperthyroidism, and high testosterone levels, respectively. The results of our study revealed that anxiety disorders, depression, erectile dysfunction, and chronic prostatitis are common among patients with acquired PE and may play role in the etiology of this problem. There is a need for further researches related to the exact pathophysiology of acquired PE with larger number of patients.

Interventions to Treat Erectile Dysfunction and Premature Ejaculation: An Overview of Systematic Reviews

INTRODUCTION

Sexual dysfunction in men is common, and optimal treatment is complex. Although several systematic reviews concerning treatment approaches exist, a comprehensive overview without limitations concerning the population, interventions, or outcomes is lacking.

AIM

To conduct a "review of reviews" to compare the effectiveness of pharmacologic, non-pharmacologic, and combined interventions.

METHODS

9 electronic databases, relevant journals, and reference lists up to July 2018 were searched. For each intervention, only the most recent and comprehensive meta-analysis or systematic review was included. The methodologic quality of the reviews was appraised using the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews-2 tool.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Sexual functioning (via intravaginal ejaculatory latency time and international index of erectile function), sexual satisfaction, and adverse effects.

RESULTS

30 systematic reviews were included. For premature ejaculation, several treatments, including oral pharmacotherapy (selective serotonin inhibitors, phosphodiesterase type 5 [PDE5] inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, and opioid analgesics), topical anesthetics, and combined drug and behavioral therapies demonstrated significant improvements of 1-5 minutes in the intravaginal ejaculatory latency time. Pharmacologic interventions (PDE5 inhibitors, penile injection, and testosterone), shockwave therapy, lifestyle modifications, and combined therapies (PDE5 inhibitors and psychological intervention) were effective in treating erectile dysfunction. Most pharmacologic therapies were associated with adverse effects.

CONCLUSIONS

There is suggestive evidence that pharmacologic interventions or combined therapies are more effective than non-pharmacologic interventions for treating sexual dysfunction in men; however, a range of treatment options should be presented to individual patients so they may consider the risks and benefits of treatments differently. Evidence related to behavioral and psychological interventions is insufficient compared with that related to drug trials, highlighting the necessity for larger and better randomized controlled trials. Ciocanel O, Power K, Eriksen A. Interventions to Treat Erectile Dysfunction and Premature Ejaculation: An Overview of Systematic Reviews. Sex Med 2019;7:251-269.

[Appllication of human acellular dermal matrix in surgical treatment of genitourinary disease]

Humanacellular dermal matrix (HADM) is widely used in the field of burn wound repair and tissue engineering plastic surgery. HADM is manufactored by physical and chemical decellular process to remove the antigenic components that might cause immune rejection in dermis.The extracellular matrix of three-dimensional cell scaffold structure with collagen fibers had been used for wound repair and tissue regeneration, while HADM characterized with low absorption rate after implantation and strong ability to induce angiogenesis in host tissue. Studies reported that after the HADM was implanted into the patient, the host cells, such as fibroblasts and myofibroblasts, as well as lymphocytes, macrophages, granulocytes and mast cells, rapidly infiltrated the graft. The connective tissue and neovascularization were then formed within the HADM three-dimensional cell scaffold, the lymphatic system also appears after vascular reconstruction. Traditional urethral reconstruction using autologous skin flaps has some defects, such as complexity of the technology, risk of necrosis of the skin flaps after transplantation, and failure to achieve functional repair of the urethral epithelium. It has been reported that using HADM to reconstruct the urethra in patients with urethral stricture, hypospadias and bladder-vaginal fistula, showed promising results. Others have reported the experience of using HADM to repair and reconstruct congenital classic bladder exstrophy. HADM has also been used for tissue repair in patients with penile skin defect caused by Fonier's gangrene and hidradenitis suppurativa, and implanted under Bucks' fascia to enlarge the penis. The report of HADM implantation for treating premature ejaculation also deserves attention. Researchers found that HADM implantation can form a tissue barrier between the skin and corpus cavernosum, which can effectively reduce penile sensitivity and treat premature ejaculation. The safety and effectiveness of HADM implantation in the treatment of premature ejaculation need to be further standardized by data from multi-center, large-sample clinical studies. In summary, HADM is the extracellular matrix and three-dimensional cell scaffold of human dermis. As a new type of tissue repair material, new blood vessels are formed actively after implantation, which shows good histocompatibility. HADM has shown increasingly broad application prospects in treatment of genitourinary diseases including penis, urethra and bladder diseases. HADM has also been used in the treatment of premature ejaculation in recent clinical studies, and its long-term safety and efficacy need to be further investigated.

Efficacy and Safety of "On-Demand" Dapoxetine in Treatment of Patients with Premature Ejaculation: A Meta-Analysis

Background

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of “on-demand” dapoxetine in the treatment of premature ejaculation (PE).

Material/Methods

We performed a meta-analysis of intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT), patient-reported global impression of change (PGIC), perceived control over ejaculation (PCOE), and drug-related adverse effects (AEs). We searched Medline, PubMed, Embase, CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP databases up to May 30, 2018 with the following search terms: “dapoxetine” or “SSRIs” and “premature ejaculation” or “sexual dysfunction”.

Results

Our analysis included 11 RCTs (8521 cases and 4338 controls). We found that IELT, PGIC, and PCOE in PE patients with “on-demand” dapoxetine were significantly higher than in the control group, and we observed higher proportions in 60 mg vs. 30 mg dapoxetine. The AEs were mild and tolerable.

Conclusions

“On-demand” dapoxetine is effective and safe for patients with PE, and a dose of 60 mg may be more effective than 30 mg.

Validity of premature ejaculation diagnostic tool and its association with International Index of Erectile Function-15 in Chinese men with evidence-based-defined premature ejaculation

The premature ejaculation diagnostic tool (PEDT) is a brief diagnostic measure to assess premature ejaculation (PE). However, there is insufficient evidence regarding its validity in the new evidence-based-defined PE. This study was performed to evaluate the validity of PEDT and its association with IIEF-15 in different types of evidence-based-defined PE. From June 2015 to January 2016, a total of 260 men complaining of PE and defined as lifelong PE (LPE)/acquired PE (APE) according to the evidence-based definition from Andrology Clinic of the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, along with 104 male healthy controls without PE from a medical examination center, were enrolled in this study. All individuals completed questionnaires including demographics, medical and sexual history, as well as PEDT and IIEF-15. After statistical analysis, it was found that men with PE reported higher PEDT scores (14.28 ± 3.05) and lower IIEF-15 (41.26 ± 8.20) than men without PE (PEDT: 5.32 ± 3.42, IIEF-15: 52.66 ± 6.86, P < 0.001 for both). It was suggested that a score of ≥9 indicated PE in both LPE and APE by sensitivity and specificity analyses (sensitivity: 0.875, 0.913; specificity: 0.865, 0.865, respectively). In addition, IIEF-15 were higher in men with LPE (42.64 ± 8.11) than APE (39.43 ± 7.84, P < 0.001). After adjusting for age, IIEF-15 was negatively related to PEDT in men with LPE (adjust r = -0.225, P < 0.001) and APE (adjust r = -0.378, P < 0.001). In this study, we concluded that PEDT was valid in the diagnosis of evidenced-based-defined PE. Furthermore, IIEF-15 was negatively related to PEDT in men with different types of PE.

Efficacy and safety of sertraline for the treatment of premature ejaculation: Systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUD

Evidence on the efficacy and safety of sertraline in patients with premature ejaculation (PE) was inconsistent. The objective of this article is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of sertraline for the treatment of PE.

METHODS

We searched Medline (OVID), Embase, the Cochrane Library, and 2 Chinese databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and randomized crossover trials (RTs) that evaluated the efficacy and safety of sertraline in patients with PE. A meta-analysis was performed to calculate their pooled estimates with 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS

Of the 645 records obtained, we included 12 RCTs and 2 RTs (n = 977). Meta-analysis showed that sertraline prolonged intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) in PE patients ((standard mean difference (SMD) = 2.14, 95% CI 1.20 to 3.08). Subgroup analyses indicated a prolonged IELT for different treatment courses: 4 weeks (SMD = 2.66, 1.06 to 4.26), 6 weeks (SMD = 0.95, 0.31 to 1.58), and 8 weeks (SMD = 1.81, 0.78 to 2.85). The sexual satisfaction rates of patients (SMD = 2.20, 1.57 to 2.84) and spouses (SMD = 2.27, 1.44 to 3.09) were also improved. We observed a significant increased risk of gastrointestinal upset (risk ratio = 2.71, 1.39 to 5.28) in the sertraline group.

CONCLUSION

Sertraline can prolong IELT of PE patients, improve sexual satisfaction rates of patients and spouses, but increase risk of gastrointestinal upset.

Beneficial effect of tamsulosin combined with dapoxetine in management of type III prostatitis with premature ejaculation

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of tamsulosin combined with dapoxetine in the treatment of type IIIB chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) that is complicated by premature ejaculation (PE), a total of 251 CP/CPPS patients with PE were recruited from nine hospitals across China and were randomly divided into two groups: one received tamsulosin as a control, and the other received a combination therapy of tamsulosin and dapoxetine. Follow-up was conducted at four time points, and indicators describing CP/CPPS and PE were compared between the two groups. In all, 223 patients were followed up at least once, and 114 patients completed all of the treatment process. The combination group showed more improvement in the symptoms of both PE and CP/CPPS, including thrust number (50.5 vs. 45), premature ejaculation profile score (11.39 vs. 6.96), intravaginal ejaculation latency time (5.95 min vs. 2.63 min) and the National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (7.44 vs. 11.81) in comparison with the tamsulosin group. In conclusion, for CP/CPPS patients with PE, tamsulosin combined with dapoxetine provided better therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of not only PE symptoms but also CP/CPPS indicators in comparison with tamsulosin monotherapy.

Abnormal Resting-State Functional Connectivity in the Whole Brain in Lifelong Premature Ejaculation Patients Based on Machine Learning Approach

Recent neuroimaging studies have indicated that abnormalities in brain structure and function may play an important role in the etiology of lifelong premature ejaculation (LPE). LPE patients have exhibited aberrant cortical structure, altered brain network function and abnormal brain activation in response to erotic pictures. However, it remains unclear whether resting-state whole brain functional connectivity (FC) is altered in LPE patients. Machine learning analysis has the advantage of screening the best classification features from high-throughput data (such as FC), which has the potential to identify the pathophysiological targets of disease by establishing classification indicators for patients and healthy controls (HCs). Therefore, the supported vector machine based classification model using FC as features was used in the present study to confirm the most specific FCs that distinguish LPE patients from healthy controls. After feature selection, the remained features were used to build the classification model, with an accuracy 0.85 ± 0.14, sensitivity of 0.92 ± 0.18, specificity of 0.72 ± 0.30, and recall index of 0.85 ± 0.17 across 1000 testing groups (100 times 10-folds cross validation). After that, two-sample t-tests with family-wise error correction were used to compare these features that occur more than 500 times during training steps between LPE patients and HCs. Four FCs, (1) between left medial part of orbital frontal cortex (mOFC) and right mOFC, (2) between the left rectus and right postcentral gyrus, (3) between the right insula and left pallidum, and (4) between the right middle part of temporal pole and right inferior part of temporal gyrus showed significant group difference. These results demonstrate that resting-state brain FC might be a discriminating feature to distinguish LPE patients from HCs. These classification features, especially the FC between bilateral mOFC, provide underlying abnormal central functional targets in LPE etiology, which offers a novel alternative target for future intervention in LPE treatment.

Sex Differences in Attributions to Positive and Negative Sexual Scenarios in Men and Women With and Without Sexual Problems: Reconsidering Stereotypes

People with sexual problems are more likely to attribute negative sexual experiences to themselves, in contrast to sexually functional individuals who attribute negative sexual experiences to external factors such as the circumstance or partner. We investigated attribution patterns in 820 men and 753 women, some of whom reported an orgasmic problem, to assess differences between the sexes and those with and without an orgasmic difficulty. Specifically, using an Internet-based approach, we compared attribution responses to four sexual scenarios, one representing a positive sexual experience and three representing negative sexual experiences. Women were more likely to attribute positive outcomes to their partner than men. Women were also more likely to attribute negative outcomes to themselves than men, but they more readily blamed their partner and circumstances for negative outcomes than men as well. Those with orgasmic problems were less willing to take credit for positive outcomes and more willing to accept blame for negative outcomes. Interaction effects between sex and orgasmic problems further highlighted differences between men's and women's attribution patterns. These results are interpreted in the context of traditional notions that men's attributions tend to be more self-serving and women's attributions more self-derogatory.

Efficacy of Sphincter Control Training (SCT) in the treatment of premature ejaculation, a new cognitive behavioral approach: A parallel-group randomized, controlled trial

Introduction

Current evidence suggests that Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT) has a limited role in the contemporary management of premature ejaculation (PE).

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of a new CBT for the PE called Sphincter Control Training (SCT) in combination with a masturbation aid device.

Methods

The present study included 35 patients’ that met diagnostic criteria for PE including intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) of ≤2 minutes and had a Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT) score ≥11. Participants completed all phases of a randomized controlled clinical study with a parallel group design, which was approved by the Ethical Committee of the Hospital Morales Meseguer of Murcia (Spain).The two treatment groups completed SCT over 7 weeks. The SCT consists of four different exercises and an educational session. Its objective is to provide patients with greater knowledge, awareness, and control of the external urethral sphincter. The only difference between groups was the use of a masturbation aid device called Flip Zero (TFZ-001) from the Japanese company Tenga Co., Ltd.

Outcomes

The main measure was the "fold increase" (FI) of the IELT, which was calculated using the geometric mean pre-treatment and post-treatment. In addition, Premature Ejaculation Profile PE was used as a secondary measure.

Results

The geometric mean of the measurements corresponding to the 7 weeks of treatment was calculated, and both groups were compared by means of an ANCOVA test, finding a statistically significant difference (F: 10.51, 1; p = .003) in the increase experienced by subjects in the group with the device (GWD) mean = 166.63, SD = 106.54) compared with that experienced by subjects in the group without device (GWtD) (mean = 86.99, SD = 59.98).Using Student's t-test, the Fold increase (FI) corresponding to both groups were compared. The results showed statistically significant differences (p = .008) between the measurements corresponding to the GWtD (1.38 (0.50)) and those relative to the GWD (2.69 (1.81))

Clinical implications

The FI in the GWD at the end of the trial allow us to consider this new CBT as a potential and viable PE treatment alternative. No side effects were observed in either treatment group and it required little therapeutic input and no partner involvement.

Strengths & limitations

The main limitation of this study is the lack of a 3- to 6-month follow-up of the treatment and placebo control.

Conclusions

This SCT exercise program combined with the use of a masturbation device shows promise because has numerous advantages in relation to current recommended treatments in patients with PE.

Effect of premature ejaculation desensitisation therapy combined with dapoxetine hydrochloride on the treatment of primary premature ejaculation

To evaluate the overall treatment benefits of premature ejaculation desensitisation therapy combined with 30 mg dapoxetine hydrochloride treatment on patients with primary premature ejaculation (PPE). Ninety-nine PPE patients were randomly divided into two groups at the ratio of 2:1. Sixty-six PPE patients received premature ejaculation desensitisation therapy accomplished by Weili Automatic Semen Collection-Penis Erection Detection and Analysis workstation (WLJY-2008) combined with 30 mg dapoxetine hydrochloride treatment (DTCD group), and another 33 patients received 30 mg dapoxetine hydrochloride-only treatment (DO group). Intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) and premature ejaculation profile (PEP) were recorded before and during the treatment, and clinical global impression of change (CGIC) in PPE was recorded at the fourth week and the end of the treatment and the items. In both groups were significantly improved (p < 0.0001) in IELT, PEP and CGIC for premature ejaculation compared with baseline, and DTCD treatment showed a more significant improvement on PPE patients in the items compared with DO treatment (p < 0.05). Thus, premature ejaculation desensitisation combined with dapoxetine therapy may be a better choice for improving premature ejaculation with PPE.

Correlation between premature ejaculation and psychological disorders in 270 Chinese outpatients

Clinical patients with premature ejaculation(PE) often present with poor psychological state. This study investigated whether there is a difference in the psychological state of PE and non-PE in outpatients, and whether there is a correlation between ejaculatory latency and psychological disorders. We studied demographics informations and psychological indicators for PE patients and control group, including the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale(SAS) and Self-Rating Depression Scale(SDS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and recorded the ejaculatory latency. We analyzed the relationship between PE and psychological disorders by the Pearson correlation and multifactorial logistic regression. There were significant differences in SAS(p < 0.01) and SDS(p < 0.05) scores between the PE and non-PE groups. However, Pearson correlation analysis showed that there was no correlation between ejaculatory latency and SDS. Multifactorial logistic regression analysis showed that anxiety(p < 0.05) and sleep quality(p < 0.05) were closely related to the attack of PE. The incidence of anxiety and depression in PE patients is high, anxiety is a risk factor of PE. Clinicians should pay close attention to the psychological state and sleep quality of patients with PE.

Surgical treatment for primary premature ejaculation with an inner condom technique

To explore a novel surgical treatment for primary premature ejaculation using an inner condom technique.A total of 20 males with premature ejaculation, who admitted our andrology clinic from June 2016 to July 2017, were enrolled. By surgery, an inner condom made of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) was transferred to the subcutaneous pocket of the penis. The prolongation of intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) after the surgery was examined. The perioperative complications were also studied.The surgical intervention significantly increased the average IELT in patients, from 0.67 to 2.37 min (P = .009). No serious perioperative complications and adverse psychosexual effects were seen. Patients could resume sexual activity 6 weeks after the surgery.The novel inner condom using ADM is an effective and safe surgical treatment for males with premature ejaculation. The efficacy of this new treatment modality warrants further investigation in independent cohorts.

Premature ejaculation in primary care: communication strategies versus usual care for male patients consulting for a sexual, urogenital or psychological reason - GET UP: study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Premature ejaculation (PE) is the most common sexual dysfunction among men. According to patients, the general practitioner (GP) is the appropriate professional with whom to discuss this issue. However, few patients receive the medical help needed because GPs find it difficult to talk to their patients about sex. A previous qualitative study provided six strategies described by GPs who had tackled the topic during consultation. A pilot study showed that using one of these strategies after a training course led to an increase in the rate of consultations where the topic was raised: an increase from 6.6 to 30.8%. The aim of this study is to compare whether training in communication skills with these six strategies is more effective than usual care on the incidence of patients bringing up the topic of PE with their GP.

METHODS

A cluster randomised controlled trial, stratified over four areas comparing an intervention group, which will receive the six strategies training session, and a control group, which ensures routine medical care. The primary outcome is to investigate the efficacy of a training in communication skills directed towards this pathology, compared with usual care procedures, on the incidence of patients bringing up the topic of PE with their GP. The secondary objective relates to the variation in the quality of life of patients after having recently addressed the topic of PE. Quality of life will be evaluated using the SF-12 health scale, with scoring filled in by the patient immediately after the consultation and 4 weeks later. The patients suffering from PE will be identified if their score is higher than 9 on the Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool filled in 4 weeks after the consultation. The number of patients necessary to highlight a significant difference between the two groups from 5 to 20% is 101. Therefore, a total of 600 patients is expected, 300 in each arm (40 GPs, 15 patients per GP; risk α = 5%; power = 90%; intra-cluster correlation coefficient ρ = 0.2; Hawthorne effect = 15%; lost-to-follow-up rates for GPs = 10% and for patients = 20%).

DISCUSSION

The implication for practice is the improvement in the quality of patient-centred care within a topic area which encompasses almost 30% of male sex-related complaints.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT02378779 . Registered on 3 February 2015.

Dapoxetine for the treatment of premature ejaculation: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials with trial sequential analysis

BACKGROUND

The safety and efficacy of dapoxetine for the treatment of premature ejaculation (PE) is still controversial. Thus, we decided to conduct a meta-analysis using trial sequential analysis (TSA) to determine the sufficiency of conclusions.

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the efficacy and safety of dapoxetine in the treatment of patients with PE and assess the reliability of the findings.

DESIGN

Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

METHODS

Electronic databases including PUBMED, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CNKI and Wanfang data were reviewed up to July 2017. RCTs evaluating the efficacy of dapoxetine in patients with PE and reporting intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT), patient global impression of change (PGIC) and/or adverse events (AEs) were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Mean differences between trials in efficacy for IELT, and risk ratios for PGIC and treatment-emergent AEs.

SAMPLE

8 RCTs.

RESULTS

For IELT and PGIC, significant effects were found for all doses of dapoxetine versus placebo, and similar results were obtained in subgroups of the 30-mg dose versus 60-mg dose. There were also statistically different dose-related effects on AEs. Trial sequential analysis showed that the result of our meta-analysis was confirmed and further trials are unnecessary.

CONCLUSIONS

The evidence suggests that dapoxetine may be a safe and effective drug for patients with PE.

REGISTRATION

Not registered, no published protocol.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

No relationship with manufacturer of drug.

Phase I and phase II clinical trials for the treatment of male sexual dysfunction-a systematic review of the literature

INTRODUCTION

The prevalence of sexual dysfunctions has increased over the last decades; despite a number of available treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED), premature ejaculation (PE), and Peyronie's disease (PD), still several unmet therapeutic needs deserve to be fulfilled. The aim of this review is to detail on phase I and II clinical trials investigating novel medical treatments for ED, PE, and PD.

AREAS COVERED

We conducted a systematic review of the literature including both published and ongoing phase I and II registered trials focused on medical treatment of ED, PE, and PD during the last 5 years. A total of 35 trials have been identified. Most studies (63%) investigated ED treatments and 26% were still ongoing. Stem cells (SCs) therapy was assessed in 28% of trials.

EXPERT OPINION

SCs therapy represent a promising treatment for ED although only few patients have been treated to date. Likewise, the oral selective oxytocin receptor antagonists for treating PE showed excellent safety profile and deserve further investigations in phase III trials. Preliminary results of novel topical treatments for PD with fibrinolytic and antiinflammatory drugs are encouraging, but urgently need to be confirmed in large placebo-controlled trials.

Central Neural Correlates During Inhibitory Control in Lifelong Premature Ejaculation Patients

Lifelong premature ejaculation (LPE) is a common male sexual dysfunction. Lack of active control for rapid ejaculation brought great distress to sexual harmony and even fertility. Previous neurophysiology studies revealed an ejaculation-related control mechanism in the brain. However, it remains unclear whether this inhibitory network is altered in LPE patients. The present study investigated the central inhibitory network function of LPE patients by using stop signal task (SST)-related functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and resting-state functional connectivity (FC) analysis. The results showed no difference in task-related behavioral performance or neural activation during response inhibition between LPE patients and controls. However, LPE patients showed a significantly different correlation pattern between the stop signal reaction time (SSRT) and left inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) activation during successful inhibition, in which a typical negative correlation between SSRT and the activation was completely disappeared in patients. In addition, using the left IFG as a seed, patients showed weaker FC between the seed and two areas (left dentate nucleus (DN) and right frontal pole) compared with controls. These data suggest that LPE patients have an abnormal brain control network, which may contribute to the reduced central control of rapid ejaculation. This study provides new insights into the neural mechanism of LPE involving the central inhibitory network, which may offer an underlying intervention target for future treatment.

Sexual Cognitions, Trait Anxiety, Sexual Anxiety, and Distress in Men With Different Subtypes of Premature Ejaculation and in Their Partners

This study examined trait anxiety and sexual cognitions in 610 men with premature ejaculation (PE) (DSM-IV-TR criteria) and in 107 partners of these men, and compared their scores to normative data. Sexual anxiety, intravaginal ejaculatory latency time, feeling of control over ejaculation, and PE-related distress were also assessed. The scores of 343 participants (56.23%) with clearly identifiable subtypes of PE according to Waldinger's classification system (lifelong, acquired, variable, and subjective subtypes) were compared in these domains. Finally, the predictive value of these factors in determining PE-related distress was explored. The following conclusions can be summarized from the results: (1) Men affected by PE are more distressed by the problem than their partners; (2) there is no evidence that levels of trait anxiety in individuals with PE are dissimilar to those found in the general population; (3) "dysfunctional" sexual cognitions likely play a role in PE, especially with regard to PE-related distress; (4) different subtypes of PE have similar profiles on measures of trait anxiety, sexual anxiety, and sexual cognitions; (5) differences between subtypes are only apparent with regard to feeling of control over ejaculation, with men with lifelong or acquired PE scoring significantly lower than those with a subjective form of the problem.

Serotonergic polymorphisms in the control of ejaculation

Serotonin has long been implicated in the regulation of the processes that trigger the ejaculatory reflex. Most evidence of serotonergic involvement is, however, indirect, stemming either from studies on rodents or clinical trials investigating effects of serotonergic drugs. In the past decade, emerging evidence for heritability (i.e., genetic effects) of premature ejaculation (PE) symptoms has spawned a number of scholarly attempts to identify genes that regulate ejaculation, most of which have focused on candidate genes related to the serotonergic system. The aim of the present review article was to summarize the literature concerning genetic association studies of PE, with focus on serotonergic genes. However, methodological obstacles relating to the candidate gene approach predict that a priori hypotheses regarding candidate genes are likely to generate ambiguous and spurious results if samples (e.g., if samples are underpowered and/or stratified). Attempts to replicate reported novel associations between PE symptoms and serotonergic candidate genes have largely failed (thereby adding to the growing body of evidence casting doubt on the reliability of the candidate gene approach), and at present, it is not possible to determine with acceptable certainty which serotonergic genes, if any, are involved in ejaculatory function.

Longer trinucleotide repeats of androgen receptor are associated with higher testosterone and low oxytocin levels in diabetic premature ejaculatory dysfunction patients

Background

Despite its worldwide high occurrence, the obscurity regarding the description, epidemiology and management of premature ejaculation remains provocative. It is well established that male premature ejaculatory dysfunction is an increasing problem due to spontaneous ejaculation across a variety of general and clinical subjects. The main goal of this study was to determine the relationships between trinucleotide repeats of the androgen receptor (AR), sex steroids, and pituitary hormones with sexual function in men with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and reported with acquired premature ejaculation (PE).

Methods

A total of 150 normal and 250 PE + DM subjects were enrolled in this study. Each subject was invited to fill out an elaborative questionnaire to acquire precise selective information regarding BMI, duration of PE + DM, self-reported Intra-Vaginal Ejaculatory Latency Time (IELT), sexual and mental health status by using the premature ejaculation diagnostic tool (PEDT) and Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Pearson's correlation analysis was used to analyze the relationship between clinical, hormonal, and genetic variables. Ward's minimum variance cluster analysis and principal component analysis were used for evaluation of dependence between genetic, clinical, and demographic parameters.

Results

The patients who have the lowest number of (≤21) (CAG)n repeats have higher serum oxytocin levels (114.2 pg/ml; n = 54, 43.2%) than the controls (69.18 pg/ml; n = 22, 17.6%) and the patients with the highest (≥26) number of (CAG)n repeats (62.9 pg/ml; n = 108, 43.2%).On the other hand, patients who have the highest numbers of (CAG)n repeats (≥26) have higher serum testosterone (6.1 ng/ml; n = 108, 43.2% of cohort) lower prolactin (3.01 ng/ml; n = 108, 43.2% of cohort) levels than the controls and patients with the lowest numbers (≤21) of (CAG)n repeats and their TSH (1.53 mIU/L, P < 0.05) levels are lower than those of controls. In the Pearson correlation model, self-estimated IELT demonstrated significantly negative correlation with both (CAG)n and (GCC)n repeats (r = - 0.16, p = 0.0001; r = - 0.19, p = 0.0001) respectively. These repeats have positive correlation with PEDT (r = 0.28, p = 0.0001: r = 0.24, p = 0.0001, whole model) and inversely correlated with BDI-II (r = - 0.25, p = 0.0001).

Conclusion

This study indicates that androgen receptor polymorphism modulates the endocrine effect on ejaculatory reflex and depends strongly on its "cofactors". Moreover, our results also confirmed an association between long tri-nucleotide repeats of androgen receptor, sex steroids, pituitary, and thyroid hormones in relation to  acquired premature ejaculatory dysfunction in diabetic patients. However, endocrine regulation of PE reflex is a complex phenomenon that requires further investigation.

Penile sensory thresholds in subtypes of premature ejaculation: implications of comorbid erectile dysfunction

Penile hypersensitivity plays an important role in premature ejaculation (PE), but differences in penile sensitivity among subtypes of PE are unknown. Therefore, we compared penile sensory thresholds in PE subtypes of lifelong and acquired PE, PE with and without erectile dysfunction (ED), PE with an intravaginal ejaculation latency time ≤1 min and >1 min, and PE with and without orgasmic pleasure perceptual dysfunction. During August 2014 to January 2016, 136 patients with PE were included. Penile warm, cold, and vibratory thresholds were measured. Data of clinical characteristics, sexual life, Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT) score, and the 5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) score were collected. Vibratory thresholds of the PE with ED group were higher in the right coronal sulcus (median amplitude: 4.92 vs 3.65 μ m, P = 0.02) and the right penile shaft (median amplitude: 3.87 vs 3.30 μ m, P = 0.03), while differences in penile sensory thresholds between other subtypes were not significant. The median PEDT score was lower in the PE without ED group (12 vs 14, P < 0.001). The IIEF-5 and PEDT scores were negatively correlated (r = -0.29, P < 0.001). Patients with orgasmic pleasure perceptual dysfunction had a lower median IIEF-5 score (20 vs 21, P = 0.02). Patients with PE and ED had lower penile sensitivity, and ED was associated with more severe symptoms and weaker orgasmic pleasure perception. In men with PE, management of comorbid ED is necessary. In case of side effects in erectile function, topical anesthetics should be cautiously used in men with PE and ED.

Transcutaneous neuromuscular electrical stimulation may be beneficial in the treatment of premature ejaculation

Approximately 20-30% of sexually active men suffer from Premature Ejaculation (PE), but the pathophysiology still remains unclear and the current available treatments for PE are unsatisfying. Considering the role of rhythmic bulbospongiosus and ischiocavernosus Muscles contractions on the ejaculatory reflex, we hypothesize that weakening this muscles via inhibiting it's contractions by Application of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation prior to the planned sexual activity, may have a beneficial effect in the treatment of PE. Using miniaturized perineal on-demand stimulation device, in a home setting during sexual intercourse may become the first line of treatment for PE.

Premature ejaculation and its associated factors among men attending a primary healthcare clinic in Kelantan, Malaysia

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of premature ejaculation and its associated factors among men attending a primary healthcare clinic in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 18- to 60-year-old sexually active men during at least the past 6 months. Patients with unstable psychiatric illnesses, mental retardation, and illiteracy were excluded. A questionnaire on sociodemographic factors, Malay version Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool, and Malay version International Index Erectile Function-5 were distributed. Premature ejaculation was defined as a Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool score of 9 and above. Descriptive analysis and simple and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed using SPSS version 22.

Results

A total of 294 of 313 eligible men responded, with a response rate of 93.9%. The prevalence of premature ejaculation was 21.4% (n = 63). The multiple logistic regression analysis showed that mild [adj. OR (95% CI): 5.6 (1.89, 16.91); P = 0.002], mild-moderate [adj. OR (95% CI): 8.2 (2.72, 24.46); P < 0.001], and moderate-severe [adj. OR (95% CI): 6.0 (1.15, 31.23); P = 0.03] erectile dysfunctions were significantly associated with premature ejaculation.

Conclusion

Promoting awareness on premature ejaculation among the society and healthcare providers would increase the detection rate of this disorder. Such data will also help provide better sexual health services. Research on the underlying comorbidities among men with premature ejaculation is recommended owing to its negative impact on psychosocial aspects and quality of life.