Are men with erectile dysfunction more likely to have hypertension than men without erectile dysfunction? A naturalistic national cohort study

The Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Erectile Dysfunction in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Erectile dysfunction (ED) may be common in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but its prevalence and risk factors still remain debatable.

AIM

To evaluate the prevalence of ED in the IBD population and the potential role of risk factors in the development of ED.

METHODS

An extensive search in the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science was performed to identify relevant English-language articles published up to December 2021 that evaluated the prevalence of ED on IBD patients. The included studies were evaluated by 2 independent reviewers for eligibility. We used an adapted Assessment Tool for Prevalence Studies to evaluate the quality of enrolled studies. Data were analyzed and graphed using the STATA software (version 16.0; Stata Corporation, College Station, TX, USA). The ORs with 95% CIs were pooled using a fixed or random-effects model according to heterogeneity. Subgroup analysis was performed to explore the source of heterogeneity. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate the stability of the results.

OUTCOMES

The pooled prevalence of ED in IBD patients was calculated, and the OR value and 95% CIs were used to assess the strength of the association between IBD-related risk factors and ED.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies included 32,858 individuals totally were enrolled for this meta-analysis. The overall pooled prevalence estimate of ED in IBD patients was 27% (95% CI: 20-34%). Operation (OR 1.28; 95% CI: 1.17-1.39; P < .00001; I2 = 0.0%), disease activity (OR 2.06; 95% CI: 1.07-3.05; P < .00001), and depression (crude OR 3.31; 95% CI: 1.08-5.54; P = .004; I2 = 0.0%) significantly increase the risk of ED in people with IBD. The association of depression and ED was further confirmed by calculating the pooled estimates of adjusted OR (1.58; 95% CI: 0.05-3.12; P < .05; I2 = 0.0%). The pooled prevalence estimates of ED were 30, 33, and 17% in the age <40, IIEF diagnostic tool, and IPAA surgery subgroups, respectively.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

IBD patients had a significantly increased prevalence of ED, indicating that erectile function in men with IBD should be concerned by clinicians.

STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS

The strength of this study is that this is the first meta-analysis to assess the global prevalence and risk factors of ED in IBD patients. A limitation is that the results after pooling the included articles showed significant heterogeneity.

CONCLUSION

The results of our meta-analysis and systematic review provide evidence of the high prevalence and risk factors of ED in IBD patients. Wu X, Zhang Y, Zhang W, et al. The Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Erectile Dysfunction in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. J Sex Med 2022;19:950-960.

Pre and Postoperative Sexual Dysfunction in Patients with Leriche Syndrome—A Prospective Pilot Study

Background: Recovery of normal arterial inflow in the lower limbs after Leriche’s syndrome surgery does not always improve erection. This study assesses the effects of Leriche syndrome on erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction in patients awaiting surgical treatment and the impact of treatment used on sexual dysfunctions. Methods: 35 men with Leriche syndrome aged 61.3 years (SD = 7.74) were assessed for erectile dysfunction. The patients were classified into three groups: aortofemoral bypass (group 1); stenting of the iliac artery (group 2) and aortobifemoral bypass (group 3). The patients were qualified for surgery based on the TASC II guidelines. Follow-up was done 3 months after treatment. Results: The mean preoperative IIEF-5 score was 14. 69 (+/− 5.30), with better preoperative scores obtained by 54.3% of patients. A total of 51.4% and 48.6% of patients, respectively, reported normal erection enabling satisfactory penetration and normal ejaculation before treatment. After surgical treatment, satisfactory erection was reported by 60% of all surgically treated patients, whereas the presence of ejaculation was reported by only 14.2% of patients. Conclusions: The IIEF-5 score is a tool for careful assessment of vascular erectile dysfunctions, it allows for the evaluation of erectile dysfunctions in relation to atherosclerosis risk factors. The treatment strategy used allowed for slight improvement as evidenced to erection but decreasing normal ejaculation.

Retrospective Observational Real-World Outcome Study to Evaluate Safety Among Patients With Erectile Dysfunction (ED) With Co-Possession of Tadalafil and Anti-Hypertensive Medications (anti-HTN)

BACKGROUND

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition affecting male adults and may be associated with hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and obesity. Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, such as tadalafil, are the first-line drug therapy for ED. Studies and the current prescribing information of these PDE5 inhibitors indicate they are mechanistic mild vasodilators and, as such, concomitant use of a PDE5 inhibitor with anti-hypertensive medication may lead to drops in blood pressure due to possible drug-drug interaction.

AIM

Evaluate risks of hypotensive/cardiovascular outcomes in a large cohort of patients with ED that have co-possession of prescriptions for tadalafil and hypertensive medications versus either medication/s alone.

METHODS

A cohort study conducted within an electronic health record database (Optum) representing hospitals across the US. Adult male patients prescribed tadalafil and/or anti-hypertensive medications from January 2012 to December 2017 were eligible. Possession periods were defined by the time patients likely had possession of medication, with propensity score-matched groups used for comparison.

OUTCOMES

Risk of hypotensive/cardiovascular outcomes were measured using diagnostic codes and NLP algorithms during possession periods of tadalafil + anti-hypertensive versus either medication/s alone.

RESULTS

In total there were 127,849 tadalafil + anti-hypertensive medication possession periods, 821,359 anti-hypertensive only medication possession periods, and 98,638 tadalafil only medication possession periods during the study; 126,120 were successfully matched. Adjusted-matched incidence rate ratios (IRRs) for the anti-hypertensive only possession periods compared with tadalafil + anti-hypertensive periods of diagnosed outcomes were all below 1. Two outcomes had a 95% confidence interval (CI) that did not include 1.0: ventricular arrhythmia (IRR 0.79; 95% CI 0.66, 0.94) and diagnosis of hypotension (IRR 0.79; 95% CI 0.71, 0.89).

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Provides real world evidence that co-possession of tadalafil and anti-hypertensive medications does not increase risk of hypotensive/cardiovascular outcomes beyond that observed for patients in possession of anti-hypertensive medications only.

STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS

EHR data are valuable for the evaluation of real world outcomes, however, the data are retrospective and collected for clinical patient management rather than research. Prescription data represent the intent of the prescriber and not use by the patient. Residual bias cannot be ruled out, despite propensity score matching, due to unobserved patient characteristics and severity that are not fully reflected in the EHR database.

CONCLUSION

In the studied real world patients, this study did not demonstrate an increased risk of hypotensive or cardiovascular outcomes associated with co-possession of tadalafil and anti-hypertensive medications beyond that observed for patients in possession of anti-hypertensive medications only. Nunes AP, Seeger JD, Stewart A, et al., Retrospective Observational Real-World Outcome Study to Evaluate Safety Among Patients With Erectile Dysfunction (ED) With Co-Possession of Tadalafil and Anti-Hypertensive Medications (anti-HTN). J Sex Med 2022;19:74-82.

Comparison of the Prevalence of Erectile Dysfunction Between Hypertensive and Normotensive Participants: A Case-Control Study

Introduction

Hypertension is a very common risk factor for erectile dysfunction (ED). In recent time, changes in lifestyle has led to an increase in the prevalence of hypertension, which has increased the risk of ED. The purpose of this study is to assess the prevalence of ED in hypertensive patients and compare various domains of sexual activity between hypertensive and normotensive participants.

Methods

This case-control study was conducted in an outpatient department of a tertiary health care hospital in Pakistan from March 2019 to September 2019. Two hundred and twelve clinically diagnosed hypertensive patients were enrolled and were identified as case group. Control group consisted of 212 people, without any history of hypertension. Sexual function was assessed with the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF).

Results

The prevalence of erectile dysfunction in hypertensive group was 61.79%, compared to 20.28% in normotensive group. Erectile weakness (OR = 4.32, CI 2.64-7.05), impaired morning erection (OR = 5.02, CI 2.98-8.47), complete erectile failure (OR = 2.32, CI 1.14-4.75), impaired spontaneous erection (OR = 5.45, CI 3.28-9.03), ejaculatory disturbances (OR = 5.20, CI 2.96-9.12) and reduced sexual interest (OR = 5.12, CI 3.04-8.64) were found to be significantly higher in patients with hypertension compared to normotensive participants.

Conclusion

This study has found ED to be prevalent in hypertensive patients. Identifying and acknowledging hypertension as a risk factor may help identify patients with ED and reinforce the clinician's importance of asking sexual history of hypertensive patients.

Blood Oxygen Accumulation Distribution Area Index Is Associated With Erectile Dysfunction in Patients With Sleep Apnea-Results From a Cross-sectional Study

Introduction

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been linked with erectile dysfunction (ED), but the relatively independent polysomnography (PSG) outcomes of apnea and nocturnal hypoxia may not effectively assess the physiological impairment of OSA well.

Aim

To propose a new calculation method, the blood oxygen accumulation distribution area index (BOADAI), for evaluating the association between OSA and ED.

Methods

In this study, 502 male participants with suspected OSA were enrolled. Clinical questionnaire, physical measurements, and PSG outcomes were obtained by 2 respiratory physicians. ED was assessed by a urologist using the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5). Whole pulse oxygen saturation curves during the sleep time were compressed into a fixed scale image, and the distribution area of oxygen saturation curves was outlined. We then calculated the value of the outlined area and normalized it by total sleep time. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator logistic regression model was used for selecting the optimal variable associated with ED and model construction. The clinical net benefit of the BOADAI and its related modules was estimated and compared by decision curve analysis.

Main Outcome Measure

ED and OSA were assessed using the IIEF-5, clinical questionnaire, physical measurements, and PSG outcomes.

Results

The frequency of ED in patients with OSA was significantly greater than that in the no-OSA group. Meanwhile, the new BOADAI was negatively correlated with the IIEF-5 score (r = −0.2525, P = .0000). Moreover, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator method retained BOADAI but not the other PSG parameters such as respiratory disorder index and lowest SaO2. Finally, logistic regression analysis revealed that older age, lips with cyanochroia, systemic hypertension, and BOADAI were independently associated with ED, and decision curve analysis indicated the clinical usefulness of the BOADAI module.

Conclusion

This study revealed novel evidence that OSA is a risk factor for ED. Meanwhile, the BOADAI could act as a potential clinical characteristic to evaluate ED in patients with OSA and to provide clinical treatment recommendations.

Zheng W, Chen X, Huang J, et al. Blood Oxygen Accumulation Distribution Area Index Is Associated With Erectile Dysfunction in Patients With Sleep Apnea—Results From a Cross-sectional Study. Sex Med 2019; 8:36–44.

Sexual life and medication taking behaviours in young men: An online survey of 92 620 respondents in China

OBJECTIVES

To assess sexual life and medication taking behaviours in young Chinese men.

METHODS

An online survey was conducted across China between January 2017 and April 2017. Among the participants, men aged 19-40 years were included in the analysis. The respondents filled in the online questionnaire assessing sexual life and medication taking behaviours by themselves, including general information, cognition of erectile dysfunction (ED) and treatment-related questions. Erection hardness score (EHS) was used to measure the erection hardness status.

RESULTS

Among the young respondents, 20.54% had grade I-II EHS, 58.14% searched the internet for online ED-related information, 26.49% took an ED medication and 50.89% took an ED medication without the advice of a physician or pharmacist. The respondents who took medication had less sexual intercourse per week (P < .001) and worse EHS (P < .001), and were more willing to seek information from physicians, pharmacists, friends and relatives instead of online sources (P < .001), compared with those not taking medication. The most common comorbidities in patients with grade I-II EHS were hyperlipidaemia, cardiovascular disease (CVD), prostate diseases and diabetes mellitus.

CONCLUSION

About 20% of young Chinese men needed further assessment for ED. The majority of respondents obtained ED-related information by online search and took an ED medication without professional advice. These data could help clinicians understand the current status of sexual life and medication taking behaviours of young Chinese men.

Real-world observational results from a database of 48 million men in the United States: Relationship of cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus and depression with age and erectile dysfunction

AIMS

To evaluate the relationship of comorbidities (cardiovascular disease [CVD], diabetes mellitus [DM] and depression) with erectile dysfunction (ED) and age using real-world claims data from 48 million men in the United States.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional, non-interventional study in men aged ≥18 years using data from the Truven Health MarketScan^® and Medicare Supplemental Research Databases from January 2010 to December 2015, with an observational period of January 2011 to December 2014 to allow for 12 months pre- and post-index. Comorbidity rate was compared between ED and non-ED groups by age using the χ² (bivariate) test. Comorbidity relationship to ED after controlling for categorical variables was assessed using logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

In all, 48 004 379 men were in the database. Of the 9 839 578 who met the inclusion criteria, 573 313 (6%) were ED patients and 9 266 265 (94%) were non-ED patients. ED diagnosis increased decade to decade from 18-29 years to 50-59 years but decreased from 60-69 years to ≥90 years. ED patients had a higher prevalence of CVD, DM and depression than non-ED patients in all periods (P < .0001). After controlling for potential demographic and baseline confounders, the association between ED and CVD, DM and depression remained significant for each age group beginning at 30-39 years (P < .0001).

DISCUSSION

Conversations with patients concerning ED should be comprehensive regardless of patient age, in particular in those who have CVD, DM and/or depression.

CONCLUSIONS

In the real-world setting, ED diagnosis was associated with CVD, DM and depression across age groups, suggesting a need for inquiry about the potential for comorbidities among these men as a preventative measure against potentially serious future events.

Relationship between age and erectile dysfunction diagnosis or treatment using real-world observational data in the USA

AIMS

With self-reporting of erectile dysfunction (ED) in population-based surveys, men with ED may not represent men who are bothered sufficiently to seek an ED diagnosis and treatment. We used real-world observational data to assess: 1) the prevalence of ED diagnosis or treatment by age subgroups; and 2) the relationship of age with ED diagnosis or treatment after controlling for ED-related comorbidities in the USA.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study used de-identified claims data (MarketScan^® databases; primary analysis). Sensitivity analysis was conducted using electronic health records (Humedica^® database). Inclusion criteria were men aged ≥18 years with a 360-day continuous enrollment before the index date. We assessed the prevalence of ED diagnosis or phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor (PDE5I) prescription by age and the risk for ED diagnosis or treatment by age after controlling for comorbidities (hypertension, other cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, depression and benign prostatic hyperplasia).

RESULTS

Of 19,833,939 men meeting inclusion criteria in the primary analysis, only 1 108 842 (5.6%) had an ED diagnosis or PDE5I prescription (mean [SD] age: 55.2 [11.2] years). Prevalence of ED diagnosis or treatment increased from age 18-29 years (0.4%) to 60-69 years (11.5%), then decreased in the seventh (11.0%), eighth (4.6%), and ninth (0.9%) decades. Men with ED diagnosis or treatment had a higher prevalence of any comorbidity (63.1% vs 29.3% for men without ED) and of each comorbid condition. In multivariate analyses, age was an independent risk factor for ED diagnosis or treatment. Sensitivity analysis provided consistent results.

CONCLUSIONS

In a real-world setting in the USA, the prevalence of ED diagnosis or PDE5I treatment is generally low, increases with age, decreases in very old men, and is associated with increased prevalence of comorbidities. Age is an independent risk factor for ED diagnosis or treatment after controlling for comorbidities.

Hypertension might be a risk factor for erectile dysfunction: a meta-analysis

The study aimed to evaluate whether hypertension was a risk factor for erectile dysfunction (ED). Databases including PubMed and Embase were retrieved to identify studies related to hypertension in ED patients. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used as the effect size. Subgroup analyses stratified by total number of enrolled subjects and research regions were performed. Sensitivity analysis was performed by removing a single study at one time. Egger's test was used to evaluate the publication bias. Totally, 40 studies including 121,641 subjects were included in the meta-analysis. As a result, hypertension was closely related to ED (OR = 1.74, 95% CI, 0.63-0.80, p < .01). Subgroup analysis indicated hypertension was the risk factor for ED whatever the participants numbers. When stratified by different regions, hypertension was a risk factor for ED in Africa (OR = 3.35, 95% CI, 1.45-7.77, p < .01), Americas (OR = 1.97, 95% CI, 1.68-2.31, p < 0.01), Asia (OR = 1.46, 95% CI, 1.16-1.84, p < .01) and Europe (OR = 1.83, 95% CI, 1.34-2.49, p < .01), but not in Australia. Hypertension may be a potential risk factor for ED.

The History and clinical examination for self-reported erectile dysfunction: are we following European guidelines? The results of the North West of England Regional Audit

Introduction and objectives

There is evidence of an association between erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular risk factors including diabetes, hypertension and smoking. Indeed erectile dysfunction is now thought to be a symptom of underlying cardiovascular disease. Strong emphasis is placed upon identifying such risk factors, and management strategies to address these have been shown to be effective in treating erectile dysfunction. The European Association of Urology (EAU) have published Guidelines on Male Sexual Dysfunction 2012 which advocate a detailed medical history and clinical examination in all patients presenting with erectile dysfunction. The aim of this multicentre audit was to assess how well patients presenting to erectile dysfunction services across the North West of England are assessed with a history and examination according to EAU guidelines.

Methods and materials

An independent data collection team examined the case notes of 239 new referrals presenting with erectile dysfunction to 16 centres across the North West of England. The audit departments at each centre were requested to identify the last 20 new referrals for erectile dysfunction retrospectively from the end of 2011. The documentation was then evaluated, and we report these results.

Results

Risk factor assessment, percentage documentation - Diabetes 99.6% - Hypertension 41.8% - Cardiovascular disease 22.2% - Hyperlipidaemia 28.5% - Smoking 89.1% - Alcohol 83.3% Assessment of erectile dysfunction, percentage documentation - Duration 95% - Rigidity 90.4% - Longevity 89.1% - Spontaneous erections 91.6% - Orgasm 39.3% - Ejaculation 53.1% - Intercourse 96.7% - Libido 93.7% - International Index for Erectile Function (IIEF) 32% Examination, percentage documentation - Genitalia 85.4% - Blood pressure 74.9% - Secondary sexual characteristics 41% - Body mass index (BMI)/obesity 77.4% - Peripheral pulses 56.5%

Conclusion

The results from the North West of England Regional Audit on Erectile Dysfunction 2012 show that the documentation employed in the case notes has scope for improvement. The authors suggest that employing a specifically designed pro forma would improve the documentation and consequently the accuracy in assessment of these patients. Other recommendations include the development of designated andrology/erectile dysfunction clinics where urologists or specialist nurses with an interest in the subject matter can provide a more meaningful patient experience.

Korean Society for Sexual Medicine and Andrology (KSSMA) Guideline on Erectile Dysfunction

In February 2011, the Korean Society for Sexual Medicine and Andrology (KSSMA) realized the necessity of developing a guideline on erectile dysfunction (ED) appropriate for the local context, and established a committee for the development of a guideline on ED. As many international guidelines based on objective evidence are available, the committee decided to adapt these guidelines for local needs instead of developing a new guideline. Considering the extensive research activities on ED in Korea, data with a high level of evidence among those reported by Korean researchers have been collected and included in the guideline development process. The latest KSSMA guideline on ED has been developed for urologists. The KSSMA hopes that this guideline will help urologists in clinical practice.

[Erectile dysfunction and its severity are related to the number of cardiovascular risk factors]

AIM

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a very common condition in the general population. ED is closely related to Hypertension (HT), Diabetes Mellitus (DM), Dyslipidemia (DLP) and Metabolic Syndrome (MS). This study has aimed to clarify whether the presence and severity of ED are related to the presence and number of cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the characteristics of 242 males referred to our center for a prostate biopsy from September 2007 to December 2009. The following variables were collected prospectively: age, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), AHT, DM, DLP and obesity (BMI<30 kg/m(2)). The Erection Hardness Score Questionnaire was used to assess erectile function. We analyzed the relation between the presence and severity of ED and the presence of HT, DM, DLP and obesity. We analyzed the clinical variables based on the presence or absence of ED and in relationship to its severity.

RESULTS

The presence of ED was related to HT (OR: 1.805 [1.128-2.887]; p=0.013), DM (OR 3.585 [1.613-7.966]; p=0.001) and Dyslipidemia (OR: 1.928 [1.062-3.500]; p=0.029). Erectile function was not related to Obesity (OR: 0.929 [0.522-1.632]; p=0.795). Patients with ED were more likely to have more CVRF (p=0.009) and the severity of ED was related to the presence of HT (p<0.001), DM (p<0.001), DLP (p=0.001) and the number of CVRF (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence and severity of ED correlate with the presence of HT, DM, Dyslipidemia and the number of DVRF.

SOP: physical examination and laboratory testing for men with erectile dysfunction

INTRODUCTION

Physical examination and laboratory evaluation of men with erectile dysfunction (ED) are opportunities to identify potentially life-threatening etiologies and comorbid conditions.

AIM

To review genital anatomy, identify any physical abnormalities, assess for comorbid conditions, and reveal significant risk factors for ED.

METHODS

Expert opinion was based on evidence-based medical literature and consensus discussions between members of this International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) standards committee.

RESULTS

For men with ED, a general examination including blood pressure and pulse measurements and a focused genital exam are advised. Fasting blood sugar, serum total testosterone, prolactin levels, and a lipid profile may reveal significant comorbid conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

Though physical examination and laboratory evaluation of most men with ED may not reveal the exact diagnosis, these opportunities to identify critical comorbid conditions should not be missed.

Vardenafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction: an overview of the clinical evidence

Many men with erectile dysfunction (ED) also have associated underlying cardiovascular and metabolic conditions, for which they are likely to be taking medication. Therefore, cardiovascular safety and potential drug interactions are two of the major concerns when using PDE-5 inhibitors in these patients. The PDE-5 inhibitor, vardenafil, is characterized by a rapid onset of action, increased duration of erection, high rates of first-dose success and reliable efficacy that can be maintained with continued use. In both clinical trials and real-life observational studies, vardenafil has demonstrated a favorable efficacy and safety profile in men with ED, including those with associated underlying conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidemia. Importantly, the concomitant use of medication for these conditions is not associated with any noteworthy changes in the efficacy and safety of vardenafil. The evidence presented in this review supports the use of vardenafil as a first-line treatment for men with ED, including those with underlying conditions.

The burden and extent of comorbid conditions in patients with erectile dysfunction

BACKGROUND

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common sexual problem in men. Under-reporting of ED is widespread, largely because of the embarrassing nature of the condition.

AIM

This paper reviews the comorbid conditions that are commonly found in patients with ED patients and discusses the implications.

DISCUSSION

Erectile dysfunction is often associated with other disorders such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, dyslipidaemia, obesity, depression, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lower urinary tract symptoms. Although the aetiology of ED is multifactorial, some of the associated comorbid conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and hypertension, can be a primary cause of ED. Similarly, ED could be a useful marker for comorbid conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Effective treatments for ED are available, including the three phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors sildenafil citrate, tadalafil and vardenafil HCl.

CONCLUSIONS

Thorough medical screening of patients with ED is advisable, as this could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of comorbid conditions. Conversely, men with conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity and depression may have undiagnosed ED and should be questioned appropriately to ascertain any erectile problems and initiate appropriate treatment.

Epinephrine is associated with both erectile dysfunction and lower urinary tract symptoms

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) have a higher incidence of insulin resistance (IR) when compared with controls.

DESIGN

Prospective case-control study.

SETTING

Academic medical center.

PATIENT(S)

Twenty-nine nondiabetic men aged 18-66 years were enrolled. Of these, 28 completed the study: 17 had ED, and 11 did not.

INTERVENTION(S)

Validated ED questionnaires, examination, serum hormones evaluation, and oral glucose tolerance testing.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Association of IR with ED.

RESULT(S)

The association between worsening degrees of both lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and ED was reaffirmed, as was a potential correlation between the two-epinephrine. There was a negative association between serum levels of epinephrine and scores on the 5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Dysfunction for ED (Spearman correlation coefficient = -0.38). On the other hand, men with ED were not more likely to have IR compared with controls.

CONCLUSION(S)

Epinephrine may be the common link between ED and LUTS.

Global experiences with vardenafil in men with erectile dysfunction and underlying conditions

OBJECTIVE

Vardenafil has demonstrated efficacy for the pharmacological management of erectile dysfunction (ED). Accumulating evidence suggests that ED is frequently associated with underlying cardiovascular and metabolic conditions which are thought to be involved in the aetiology of ED. The present review aims to summarise and discuss the available evidence for the efficacy, safety and tolerability of vardenafil in patients with underlying conditions including diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidaemia.

METHODS

Relevant articles were identified through a PubMed search of clinical trials and postmarketing surveillance studies of vardenafil in patients with ED including those with diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidaemia.

RESULTS

Across all trials, vardenafil showed good efficacy for the treatment of ED in patients with diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidaemia. Vardenafil also showed a favourable safety and tolerability profile. The concomitant use of medication to treat hypertension or dyslipidaemia was not associated with an increase in adverse events following vardenafil treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of both diagnosed and undiagnosed underlying conditions is high among men with ED. The evidence presented in this review suggests that vardenafil is efficacious and well tolerated in patients with ED and diabetes, hypertension and/or dyslipidaemia and can be recommended as first-line treatment for ED in patients with these conditions.

Association among metabolic syndrome, testosterone level and severity of erectile dysfunction

The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of metabolic syndrome (MS) and serum testosterone in patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) and their possible association. A total of 103 men with ED were enrolled. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire was used to assess erectile condition. MS was defined according to the criteria formulated by the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF). The mean age of the study population was 57.5 +/- 10.7 years, with an average IIEF of 14.7 +/- 6.7. The age and prevalence of MS using the NCEP ATP III criteria, but not the IDF criteria, were significantly different between mild and moderate/severe ED patients (p = 0.031 and 0.009, respectively). The percentage of hypertension (78.6% vs. 36.2%; p < 0.001) and raised fasting glucose levels (46.4% vs. 19.1%; p = 0.004) were significantly higher in the moderate/severe ED group, and both differences remained significant in multivariate analysis (p = 0.001 and 0.042, respectively). In addition, serum testosterone levels were significantly lower in ED patients with MS (p = 0.002). In summary, the presence of MS is associated with more severe ED. Among the components of MS, elevated blood pressure and fasting blood glucose were independent risk factors. NCEP ATP III criteria seem to correlate better with the degree of ED than the IDF definition. Our results also indicate that MS is associated with a lower testosterone level in patients with ED.

Efficacy of vardenafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in men with hypertension: a meta-analysis of clinical trial data

OBJECTIVE

To review the evidence evaluating the efficacy of vardenafil in subgroups of hypertensive patients with erectile dysfunction (ED).

METHODS

Meta-analysis of randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, flexible-dose vardenafil clinical trials that were >or=12 weeks in duration evaluated men with a >or=6-month history of ED and required a >or=50% failure rate in baseline sexual attempts. The primary endpoints analyzed were the erectile function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire (IIEF-EF) and Sexual Encounter Profile questions 2 (SEP2) and 3 (SEP3).

RESULTS

Eight clinical trials were included (n = 2427 patients) consisting of 839 patients (35%) with a self-reported diagnosis of hypertension (HTN): 498 in the vardenafil and 341 in the placebo groups. Vardenafil's efficacy was evidenced by an average increase of 8.9 points in the IIEF-EF (95% CI: 7.4, 10.5) at week 12 compared to placebo, with individual trial values ranging from 16.4 to 26.1 and 11.3 to 17.8 for the vardenafil and placebo groups, respectively. Vardenafil also increased success rates for the ability to obtain erections (SEP2) by 32.4% (95% CI: 27.4%, 37.5%) over a 12-week timeframe compared to placebo, with individual trial values ranging from 57.2% to 92.2% for vardenafil and 32.0% to 66.9% for placebo. Similarly, success rates for the ability to maintain erections (SEP3) improved 38.0% (95% CI: 29.5%, 46.6%) compared to placebo, with individual trial values ranging from 41.7% to 88.2% for vardenafil and 20.5% to 51.4% for placebo. Vardenafil was equally efficacious in improving IIEF-EF, SEP2, and SEP3 in those with and without self-reported HTN.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis demonstrated that vardenafil was significantly more efficacious than placebo for the treatment of ED in patients with comorbid HTN and offered similar treatment benefits in patients without HTN.

The role of nitric oxide in erectile dysfunction: implications for medical therapy

Erectile dysfunction is a common, multifactorial disorder that is associated with aging and a range of organic and psychogenic conditions, including hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, and depression. Penile erection is a complex process involving psychogenic and hormonal input, and a neurovascular nonadrenergic, noncholinergic mechanism. Nitric oxide (NO) is believed to be the main vasoactive nonadrenergic, noncholinergic neurotransmitter and chemical mediator of penile erection. Released by nerve and endothelial cells in the corpora cavernosa of the penis, NO activates soluble guanylyl cyclase, which increases 3',5'-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels. Acting as a second messenger molecule, cGMP regulates the activity of calcium channels as well as intracellular contractile proteins that affect the relaxation of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle. Impaired NO bioactivity is a major pathogenic mechanism of erectile dysfunction. Treatment of erectile dysfunction often requires combinations of psychogenic and medical therapies, many of which have been only moderately successful in the past. The advent of oral phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5) inhibitors, however, has greatly enhanced erectile dysfunction treatment; patients have demonstrated high tolerability and success rates for improved erectile function. The efficacy of the PDE-5 inhibitors also serves to illustrate the importance of the NO-cGMP pathway in erectile function since these agents counteract the degradation of NO-generated cGMP. Because not all patients respond to PDE-5 inhibitors, additional therapies are being investigated, such as soluble guanylyl cyclase activators and NO donors, which act on NO-independent and NO-dependent pathways, respectively.

Erectile dysfunction and hypertension

Recent analyses suggest that about 67-68% of men with hypertension have some degree of erectile dysfunction (ED). With about 25 million men in the US with hypertension, substantial numbers of hypertension-related ED exist that tend to be of a more severe nature than the general population. Men with ED are also more likely to have hypertension. Thiazide diuretic and beta-blocker therapy may contribute to ED. Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors are effective therapy in men with ED owing to hypertension who are taking antihypertensive medicines including those on multiple antihypertensive medicines. The addition of PDE5 inhibitors to usual common antihypertensive medicines (diuretics, beta blockers, calcium blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers) results in either no or small additive reductions in blood pressure (BP) and no increase in serious clinical adverse events. There are however precautions regarding the use of PDE5 inhibitors in patients taking alpha blockers for either hypertension or benign prostatic hypertrophy, as some patients may develop orthostatic hypotension. Organic nitrates remain an absolute contraindication for PDE5 inhibitors because synergistic and symptomatic reductions in BP may occur in some patients with this drug combination.

Erectile Dysfunction—An Observable Marker of Diabetes Mellitus? A Large National Epidemiological Study

PURPOSE

We examined whether men with erectile dysfunction are more likely to have diabetes mellitus than men without erectile dysfunction, and whether erectile dysfunction can be used as an observable early marker of diabetes mellitus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Using a nationally representative managed care claims database from 51 health plans and 28 million members in the United States, we conducted a retrospective cohort study to compare the prevalence rates of diabetes mellitus between men with erectile dysfunction (285,436) and men without erectile dysfunction (1,584,230) during 1995 to 2001. Logistic regression models were used to isolate the effect of erectile dysfunction on the likelihood of having diabetes mellitus with adjustment for age, region and 7 concurrent diseases.

RESULTS

The diabetes mellitus prevalence rates were 20.0% in men with erectile dysfunction and 7.5% in men without erectile dysfunction. With adjustment for age, region and concurrent diseases, the odds ratio of having diabetes mellitus between men with erectile dysfunction and without erectile dysfunction was 1.60 (p <0.0001). With adjustment for regions and concurrent diseases, the age specific odds ratios ranged from 2.94 (p <0.0001, age 26 to 35) to 1.05 (p = 0.1717, age 76 to 85).

CONCLUSIONS

Men with erectile dysfunction were more than twice as likely to have diabetes mellitus as men without erectile dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction is an observable marker of diabetes mellitus, strongly so for men 45 years old or younger and likely for men 46 to 65 years old, but it is not a marker for men older than 66 years.

Comorbid conditions in men with ED before and after ED diagnosis: a retrospective database study

Although erectile dysfunction (ED) has been considered a complication of other medical conditions, clinicians and researchers suggest that ED may serve as a clinical marker of vascular health. This retrospective claims study examined the prevalence of predefined comorbid conditions in men with ED (N=301 994) in the 12 months before and the 6 months following ED diagnosis. Consistent with previous research, comorbid conditions were prevalent among men with ED. Comorbid conditions were most often diagnosed before an ED diagnosis, although new diagnoses in the 6 months following an ED diagnosis were common and occured more frequently than new diagnoses in a matched sample of men without ED during the same period. Differences by age, region and insurance coverage for ED medications were also examined. Findings support previous research that suggests ED may serve as a marker for previously undetected comorbid conditions.