Midodrine for the treatment of organic anejaculation but not spinal cord injury: a prospective randomized placebo-controlled double-blind clinical study

An exploration of testicular cancer survivors' experience of ejaculatory dysfunction following retroperitoneal lymph node dissection-a sub-study of the PREPARE clinical trial

PURPOSE

Ejaculatory dysfunction secondary to retrograde ejaculation or anejaculation is a complication of retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) for survivors of testicular cancer. We explored survivors' experiences of ejaculatory dysfunction following RPLND.

METHODS

In a sub-study of a single-arm phase 2 clinical trial (ACTRN12622000537752/12622000542796), participants reporting ejaculatory dysfunction ≥ 6 months following RPLND were invited to complete semi-structured interviews. Purposive sampling was used. Interviews continued until thematic saturation occurred, and codebook thematic analysis of interviews was performed.

RESULTS

Of 58 individuals recruited to the trial, 33 (57%) reported ejaculatory dysfunction. Of these, 32 (97%) agreed to interview and 15 participated. Participants interviewed had median age 34 years (range 24-66), 12 (80%) in a long-term relationship with median time from surgery 36 months (range 11-112). Three overarching themes were identified. The first reflected the value of RPLND despite ejaculatory dysfunction. The second illuminated the impact(s) of ejaculatory dysfunction closely mapped to life stage, with flow-on impacts to fertility, sex, psychological wellbeing and communication. The third reflected information needs. Fertility was a substantial source of concern for some participants. Ejaculatory dysfunction had no effect on sex for some, whilst for others, sex was less pleasurable. Some reported benefits. Few reported ejaculatory dysfunction challenged masculinity, confidence, or self-esteem.

CONCLUSIONS

Future research should examine interventions to reduce distress related to fertility, challenged masculinity and body image.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Whilst most participants considered ejaculatory dysfunction to have little impact on their sexual function and relationships, some reported significant difficulties varying by life stage and relationship status.

Classification and management of sexual dysfunctions in multiple sclerosis patients: A review of current literature

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most frequent neurological disease in young adults, with the greatest incidence between age of 30 and 35 years. Sexual dysfunctions (SDs) are frequent, but are often underestimated in patients with MS, and can have a significantly high impact on patient's quality of life. Aim of this review is to summarize sexual dysfunctions in male and female MS patients and to illustrate current and emerging therapeutic options for treatment.

Understanding and treating ejaculatory dysfunction in men with diabetes mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a rapidly rising metabolic disorder with important systemic complications. Global figures have demonstrated the prevalence of diabetes mellitus has almost quadrupled from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2014, with a current prevalence of over 525 million. Of the male sexual dysfunction resulting from diabetes mellitus, significant focus is afforded to erectile dysfunction. Nevertheless, ejaculatory dysfunction constitutes important sexual sequelae in diabetic men, with up to 35%-50% of men with diabetes mellitus suffering from ejaculatory dysfunction. Despite this, aspects of its pathophysiology and treatment are less well understood than erectile dysfunction. The main disorders of ejaculation include premature ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, anejaculation and retrograde ejaculation. Although ejaculatory dysfunction in diabetes mellitus can have complex multifactorial aetiology, understanding its pathophysiological mechanisms has facilitated the development of therapies in the management of ejaculatory dysfunction. Most of our understanding of its pathophysiology is derived from diabetic animal models; however, observational studies in humans have also provided useful information in elucidating important associative factors potentially contributing to ejaculatory dysfunction in diabetic men. These have provided the potential for more tailored treatment regimens in patients depending on the ejaculatory disorder, other co-existing sequelae of diabetes mellitus, specific metabolic factors as well as the need for fertility treatment. However, evidence for treatment of ejaculatory dysfunction, especially delayed ejaculation and retrograde ejaculation, is based on low-level evidence comprising small sample-size series and retrospective or cross-sectional studies. Whilst promising findings from large randomised controlled trials have provided strong evidence for the licensed treatment of premature ejaculation, similar robust studies are needed to accurately elucidate factors predicting ejaculatory dysfunction in diabetes mellitus, as well as for the development of pharmacotherapies for delayed ejaculation and retrograde ejaculation. Similarly, more contemporary robust data are required for fertility outcomes in these patients, including methods of sperm retrieval and assisted reproductive techniques in retrograde ejaculation.

Managing Urological Disorders in Multiple Sclerosis Patients: A Review of Available and Emerging Therapies

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive neurological autoimmune disease with a diverse range of urological symptomatology, and most MS patients experience 1 or more moderate to severe urinary symptoms, as well as bladder and/or sexual disorders. Urologists play the director's role in evaluating and treating these patients. Therefore, identifying the proper evaluation tools and the most suitable therapeutic options for specific patients requires a thorough understanding of this disease process.

A practical approach to assessing and managing sexual dysfunction in multiple sclerosis

Sexual dysfunction is common in both men and women with multiple sclerosis but is often under-reported and undertreated. Neurologists report that a major barrier to discussing sexual dysfunction with patients is their lack of knowledge. Here we review the common presentations of sexual dysfunction, discuss its causes in people with multiple sclerosis, and provide a practical approach for neurologists to assess and manage these problems.

[Ejaculation disorders in multiple sclerosis: Prospective study of 44 patients]

INTRODUCTION

To analyze in a descriptive way the ejaculation disorders during MS and to study the correlations between dysejaculations, other sexual, urinary and anorectal disorders.

MATERIAL

Prospective, monocentric, non-interventional study. Ejaculation disorders were assessed by Premature Ejaculation Profile (PEP) scores, intravaginal latency, and the Male Sexual Health Questionnaire - Ejaculation (MSHQ-Ej). The sexual disorders were evaluated by the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF15) and the Sclerosis Intimacy and Sexuality Questionnaire-19 (MSISQ).

RESULTS

Forty-four men of mean age 46.8 (±10.3) years, with an average EDSS of 5.0 (±1.5) were included. According to the MSHQ-Ej score, ejaculation disorders were present in 28 out of 44 patients included (64%); 26/44 (59%) had an orgasm disorder, 23/44 (52%) a delay in ejaculation, 26/44 (59%) a decrease in ejaculation flow, 24/44 (55%) decreased ejaculated volume, 18/44 (41%) decreased ejaculation frequency, 15/44 (33%) ejaculatory pain and 11 34 (25%) showed systematic non ejaculation. The PEP score showed premature ejaculation in 14 patients (32%). The intra-vaginal latency time was less than 1minute in 6 patients (13.6%). There was a statistically significant correlation between ejaculation disorders and erectile dysfunction (P<0.05, correlation coefficient at 0.53) but no statistically significant correlation between ejaculation disorders and urinary or ano-rectal disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

Dysejaculation was present in 64% of MS. These disorders were mainly characterized by a decrease in the volume of the ejaculation, the strength of ejaculation and the delay in ejaculation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4.

A Review of Pathophysiology and Management Options for Delayed Ejaculation

INTRODUCTION

Delayed ejaculation (DE) is a poorly defined disorder that entails the delay or absence of orgasm that results in personal distress. Numerous causes of DE exist, and management must be tailored to the specific etiology to maximize treatment success. Management strategies include psychological and sexual therapy, pharmacotherapy, and penile vibratory stimulation.

AIM

This article intends to review the pathophysiology and treatment options for DE discussed in the literature to date.

METHODS

A review of the literature was performed to identify and evaluate the existing data on treatment success for the various forms of DE management.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Each treatment option was evaluated for method of administration, data supporting its success for DE, and potential risks or side effects.

RESULTS

Different psychosexual therapy strategies have been described for DE but with limited data to describe efficacy. There is no medication for DE approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration. The quality of evidence supporting the off-label use of medications for DE is low. However, there are numerous medications reported in the literature suggested to treat the condition. Cabergoline and bupropion are the two most commonly used. In addition, penile vibratory stimulation has been described as an adjunct treatment option for DE.

CONCLUSION

There are different treatment options reported for DE, all with limited evidence supporting their efficacy. Identifying the etiology of the DE is important to appropriately target therapy. A multimodal approach combining psychosexual therapy with medications and/or penile vibratory stimulation will likely provide the best outcomes.

Sexual dysfunction and male infertility

Infertility affects up to 12% of all men, and sexual dysfunction occurs frequently in men of reproductive age, causing infertility in some instances. In infertile men, hypoactive sexual desire and lack of sexual satisfaction are the most prevalent types of sexual dysfunction, ranging from 8.9% to 68.7%. Erectile dysfunction and/or premature ejaculation, evaluated with validated tools, have a prevalence of one in six infertile men, and orgasmic dysfunction has a prevalence of one in ten infertile men. In addition, infertile men can experience a heavy psychological burden. Infertility and its associated psychological concerns can underlie sexual dysfunction. Furthermore, general health perturbations can lead to male infertility and/or sexual dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction and male infertility are considered proxies for general health, the former underlying cardiovascular disorders and the latter cancerous and noncancerous conditions. The concept that erectile dysfunction in infertile men might be an early marker of poor general health is emerging. Finally, medications used for general health problems can cause sperm abnormalities and sexual dysfunction. The treatment of some causes of male infertility might improve semen quality and reverse infertility-related sexual dysfunction. In infertile men, an investigation of sexual, general, and psychological health status is advisable to improve reproductive problems and general health.

The drug treatment of delayed ejaculation

Delayed ejaculation (DE) is an uncommon and a challenging disorder to treat. It is often quite concerning to patients and it can affect psychosocial well-being. Here we reviewed how DE is treated pharmacologically .We also highlighted specific settings where drugs could be introduced to medical practice. Electronic databases were searched from 1966 to February 2016, including PubMed MEDLINE, EMBASE, EBCSO Academic Search Complete, Cochrane Systematic Reviews Database, and Google Scholar using key words; delayed ejaculation, retarded ejaculation, inhibited ejaculation, drugs, treatment, or pharmacology. To achieve the maximum sensitivity of the search strategy and to identify all studies, we combined “delayed ejaculation” as Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms or keywords with each of “testosterone” or “cabergoline” or “bupropion” or “amantadine” or “cyproheptadine” or “midodrine” or “imipramine” or “ephedrine” or “pseudoephedrine” or “yohimbine” or “buspirone” or “oxytocin” or “bethanechol” as MeSH terms or keywords. There are a number of drugs to treat patients with DE including: testosterone, cabergoline, bupropion, amantadine, cyproheptadine, midodrine, imipramine, ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, yohimbine, buspirone, oxytocin, and bethanechol. Although there are many pharmacological treatment options, the evidence is still limited to small trials, case series or case reports. Review of literature showed that evidence level 1 (Double blind randomized clinical trial) studies were performed with testosterone, oxytocin, buspirone or bethanechol treatment. It is concluded that successful drug treatment of DE is still in its infancy. The clinicians need to be aware of the pathogenesis of DE and the pharmacological basis underlying the use of different drugs to extend better care for these patients. Various drugs are available to address such problem, however their evidence of efficacy is still limited and their choice needs to be individualized to each specific case.

Practical application of color Doppler ultrasonography in patients with ejaculatory dysfunction

We describe two cases in which dynamic analysis of ejaculation using color Doppler ultrasonography was useful in diagnosis of ejaculatory dysfunction and planning of therapy. The first patient was a 32-year-old man with a diagnosis of retrograde ejaculation. A bladder neck collagen injection was carried out, as the main cause was thought to be the bladder neck remaining open during ejaculation. The patient had antegrade ejaculation 1 week later. The second patient was a 48-year-old man with a diagnosis of anorgasmia accompanied by decreased seminal emission and insufficient function of the rhythmic pelvic striated muscles. The patient was prescribed etilefrine hydrochloride 15 mg/day. The symptom improved 2 weeks after starting this drug. These cases suggest that the use of color Doppler ultrasonography during ejaculation can improve the understanding of ejaculatory dysfunction and therapy for this condition.

Midodrine in patients with spinal cord injury and anejaculation: A double-blind randomized placebo-controlled pilot study

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of midodrine in the treatment of anejaculation in men with spinal cord injury (SCI).

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study.

METHOD

Men with anejaculation associated with SCI (level of injury above T10) of more than 1 year in duration were approached. Those with no ejaculatory response to one penile vibratory stimulation (PVS) trial were assigned in a double-blind manner to one of the two following interventions once a week for a maximum of 3 weeks or until ejaculation occurred: oral administration of flexible midodrine (7.5-22.5 mg max) followed by PVS (group M), or oral administration of flexible sham-midodrine (placebo) followed by PVS (group P). Sociodemographic data, medical characteristics, and plasma desglymidodrine concentration were collected for all participants.

OUTCOME MEASURE

Ejaculation success rate in each group.

RESULTS

Among the 78 men approached, 23 participants (level of SCI: C4-T9) were randomized. Three participants abandoned the study and 20 completed the study; 10 were assigned to group M, 10 to group P. Ejaculation was reached for one participant of group M and for two participants of group P. Autonomic dysreflexia associated to PVS occurred in three patients.

CONCLUSION

In this small sample study, treatment of anejaculation after SCI with midodrine and PVS did not result in a better rate of antegrade ejaculation in 10 men than in 10 men treated with a placebo and PVS.

[Multiple sclerosis and pelviperineology: Urinary and sexual dysfunctions and pregnancy]

GOAL

The aim was to review the literature on genito-urinary dysfunction in multiple sclerosis (MS).

MATERIAL

A literature review through the PubMed library until August, 31 2013 was carried out using the following keywords: multiple sclerosis and neurogenic bladder, neuropathic bladder, bladder, management, follow-up, urological complications, urological treatment, sexual dysfunction, female sexual function, male sexual function, erectile dysfunction, anorectal, faecal, constipation, bowel, pregnancy, parturition, delivery, breast-feeding.

RESULTS

Genito-urinary dysfunction is frequent in MS (35-90%) and may happen soon in the disease. Urinary symptoms (10-90%) are manifold resulting in a quality of life alteration and the onset of complications in 30% of the cases requiring a long-term follow-up. Sexual dysfunctions (35-87%) are also manifold affecting all the sexuality domains in men and women. Except the phosphodiesterase V inhibitors, few treatments have been assessed in this population. Pregnancy is nowadays considered as beneficial resulting in a disease slow-down and the lack of disease worsening despite an increase in disease relapse during the post-partum first quarter. It seems to be better to consider getting pregnant after at least one year without any relapse and to emphasize an exclusive breast-feeding.

CONCLUSION

Urinary and sexual dysfunctions are frequent in MS. A transdisciplinary approach including the neurologist and pelviperineology specialists facilitates a disability adapted early management.

A systematic review of the correlates and management of nonpremature ejaculatory dysfunction in heterosexual men

INTRODUCTION

A better understanding of ejaculatory disorders has led to an increasing interest in nonpremature ejaculatory dysfunction (non-PE EjD). Current reviews on the subject use a symptom-based classification to describe ejaculatory dysfunction even when it is a single case report. While these reviews provide important information on the disorder, a clearer picture of the prevalence of non-PE EjD in relation to the community and various pathophysiologic states is needed.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to provide a systematic review of studies of non-PE EjD excluding single case reports.

METHODS

A systematic review of Medline for terms including ejaculation, orgasm or hematospermia. Association with terms delay, pain or headache was made. The search was restricted to male gender and articles written in English. Abstracts were reviewed and those mainly concerned with premature ejaculation were excluded.

RESULTS

A total of 333 articles on non-PE EjD were identified. The condition was reported in community-based studies. In certain patient populations, non-PE EjD was commonly reported in association with antidepressant and antipsychotic treatments, in patients with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome, patients with lower urinary tract symptoms particularly in association with medical or surgical treatment, patients with retroperitoneal surgery and in patients with neurological diseases. Few articles were concerned with treatment options.

CONCLUSION

There is a significant prevalence of non-PE EjD in the community and in association with particular disease states or as a side effect of medical or surgical interventions. There is a need to direct efforts to prevent and treat these conditions.

[Ejaculatory disorders except premature ejaculation, orgasmic disorders]

INTRODUCTION

Disorders of ejaculation and orgasm apart from premature ejaculation are pretty uncommon.

METHODS

Medical literature was reviewed and combined with expert opinion of the authors.

RESULTS

The semiology of these disorders is essential: aspermia, hypospermia, retrograde ejaculation, delayed or absent ejaculation with or without orgasm. Whether this is a lifelong or acquired condition, it is essential to assess the side-effects of medications i.e. psychotropic drugs, including antidepressant, neuroleptics, tramadol, alphablockers: tamsulosin and silodosin must always be surveyed.

CONCLUSION

The management is often difficult, especially with a parenthood perspective. The management of lifelong disorders must rely on psychosexual therapies.

Management of ejaculatory disorders in infertile men

Ejaculatory dysfunction is a highly prevalent clinical condition that may be classified along a continuum that ranges from premature ejaculation (PE), through retarded or delayed ejaculation (DE), to complete anejaculation (AE). Retrograde ejaculation (RE) represents a distinct entity in which ejaculate is expelled either partially or completely into the bladder. While DE and PE are significant sources of sexual dissatisfaction among men and their partners, patients with these disorders retain normal fertility in most cases. Conversely, men with AE and RE are unable to deliver sperm into the female genital tract and are therefore rendered subfertile. Therefore, in reviewing ejaculatory disorders as they relate to fertility, this paper will primarily focus on the diagnosis and management of AE and RE. Physiology, diagnostic strategies, pharmacological treatments, and procedural interventions relevant to AE and RE are discussed.

Functional treatments in multiple sclerosis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review focuses on recent advances in the understanding and management of symptoms and dysfunctions associated with multiple sclerosis (MS).

RECENT FINDINGS

A broad spectrum of dysfunctions associated with MS are under investigation. Research published in the past year and a half addresses gait dysfunction, exercise training, fatigue, bowel/bladder and sexual dysfunction, and sleep disruption. Functional electrical stimulation and strength training have been validated for improvement in gait and motor function. Exercise training has been shown to benefit mood and quality of life scores and to reduce circulating inflammatory cytokine levels. Fatigue remains a challenging problem with incremental improvements in understanding of underlying causes and effective drug therapies offered by recent work. Treatment of bowel, bladder and sexual dysfunction utilizing a variety of modalities has been investigated with some progress.

SUMMARY

In the absence of treatments to reverse neurologic injury due to MS, effective symptom management and functional improvement remain essential to mitigate disability and maintain quality of life. Basic research, as well as controlled clinical trials, in this realm offers promising insights and solutions.

Disorders of orgasm and ejaculation in men

INTRODUCTION

Ejaculatory/orgasmic disorders are common male sexual dysfunctions, and include premature ejaculation (PE), inhibited ejaculation, anejaculation, retrograde ejaculation, and anorgasmia.

AIM

To provide recommendations and guidelines concerning current state-of-the-art knowledge for management of ejaculation/orgasmic disorders in men.

METHODS

An international consultation in collaboration with the major urology and sexual medicine associations assembled over 200 multidisciplinary experts from 60 countries into 25 committees. Committee members established specific objectives and scopes for various male and female sexual medicine topics. The recommendations concerning state-of-the-art knowledge of disorders of orgasm and ejaculation represent the opinion of seven experts from seven countries developed in a process over a 2-year period.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Expert opinion was based on grading of evidence-based medical literature, widespread internal committee discussion, public presentation and debate.

RESULTS

Premature ejaculation management is largely dependent upon etiology. Lifelong PE is best managed with PE pharmacotherapy (selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor [SSRI] and/or topical anesthetics). The management of acquired PE is etiology specific and may include erectile dysfunction (ED) pharmacotherapy in men with comorbid ED. Behavioral therapy is indicated when psychogenic or relationship factors are present and is often best combined with PE pharmacotherapy in an integrated treatment program. Retrograde ejaculation is managed by education, patient reassurance, pharmacotherapy, or bladder neck reconstruction. Delayed ejaculation, anejaculation, and/or anorgasmia may have a biogenic and/or psychogenic atiology. Men with age-related penile hypoanesthesia should be educated, reassured, and instructed in revised sexual techniques which maximize arousal.

CONCLUSIONS

Additional research is required to further the understanding of the disorders of ejaculation and orgasm.