TEMPE: Topical Eutectic-Like Mixture for Premature Ejaculation

Safety and Pharmacokinetics of PSD502 in Healthy Chinese Male and Female Volunteers: Two Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Phase I Trials

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

PSD502 is a metered-dose spray for premature ejaculation. The two trials aimed to evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetics of PSD502 in healthy Chinese male and female individuals.

METHODS

Two phase I, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials were conducted in men (Trial 1) and women (Trial 2). The participants were randomized 3:1 to receive PSD502 (7.5 mg of lidocaine and 2.5 mg of prilocaine per spray) or a placebo. For male individuals, a single dose (three sprays) once daily was applied to the glans penis for 21 days except for nine sprays (three doses) on days 7 and 14, 4 h apart for each dose. For female individuals, two sprays were applied to the vagina and one to the cervix once daily for 7 days. The primary endpoint was safety. Pharmacokinetics analysis was also performed.

RESULTS

Twenty-four male and 24 female individuals were recruited. Treatment-emergent adverse events occurred in 38.9% (7/18) of male individuals and 66.7% (12/18) of female individuals in the PSD502 group, respectively. Both trials reported 50.0% (3/6) treatment-emergent adverse events for the placebo. No grade ≥ 3 treatment-emergent adverse events, serious adverse events, or treatment-emergent adverse events leading to early withdrawal or discontinuation occurred. After consecutive applications, lidocaine and prilocaine cleared rapidly in both trials. Plasma concentrations exhibited high inter-individual variability. The maximum plasma concentrations of active ingredients were far below the anticipated minimum toxic concentrations. The area under the plasma concentration-time curve of metabolites were ≤ 20% of the parent drugs. No clinically significant accumulations were observed in the two trials.

CONCLUSIONS

PSD502 was well tolerated and showed low plasma concentrations in healthy Chinese male and female individuals.

Prilocaine/lidocaine spray for the treatment of premature ejaculation: a dose- and time-finding study for clinical practice use

A eutectic mixture of prilocaine/lidocaine spray (Fortacin™, Recordati, Milan, Italy) has been approved for the management of patients affected by life-long premature ejaculation (PE), but to date, there is a lack of dose- or time-finding studies in the literature that indicate the best method of intake to optimize treatment outcomes. In this multicentre, randomized, two-phase study, we aimed to compare, in terms of treatment effectiveness (primary objective) and safety (secondary objective), different treatment regimens (various doses and times of drug delivery) of Fortacin™ in 91 patients affected with lifelong PE who were recruited at four different centres and randomized (1:1:1 ratio) into three different groups. The study included two phases: during the first phase (focused on time-finding), the same drug dose (three sprays) was taken at different intervals before intercourse (5, 15, 30 min). In the second phase (focused on dose finding), different drug doses (1, 3, 5 sprays) were taken at the same interval before intercourse (5 min). The main outcome measure instruments were self-measured intravaginal ejaculation latency time (sm-IELT), the premature ejaculation diagnostic tool (PEDT), and the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5). Furthermore, patients were asked to report any side effects that appeared during the study period. Our main study findings showed that the treatment regimen with three sprays of Fortacin™ administered 5 min before sexual intercourse showed the best results in terms of ejaculation time and control (Phase I, IELT 221 ± 3.4, PEDT 7.7 ± 0.3; Phase II, IELT 213 ± 4.9, PEDT 7.8 ± 0.4) with a safety profile that was identical to other treatment regimens. Based on these data, patients who are prescribed Fortacin™ should stick to this regimen to optimize treatment results.

European Association of Urology Guidelines on Sexual and Reproductive Health-2021 Update: Male Sexual Dysfunction

CONTEXT

The present summary of the European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines is based on the latest guidelines on male sexual health published in March 2021, with a last comprehensive update in January 2021.

OBJECTIVE

To present a summary of the 2021 version of the EAU guidelines on sexual and reproductive health.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A literature review was performed up to January 2021. The guidelines were updated, and a strength rating for each recommendation was included based on either a systematic review of the evidence or a consensus opinion from the expert panel.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Late-onset hypogonadism is a clinical condition in the ageing male combining low levels of circulating testosterone and specific symptoms associated with impaired hormone production and/or action. A comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic work-up, along with screening recommendations and contraindications, is provided. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the persistent inability to attain and maintain an erection sufficient to permit satisfactory sexual performance. Along with a detailed basic and advanced diagnostic approach, a novel decision-making algorithm for treating ED in order to better tailor therapy to individual patients is provided. The EAU guidelines have adopted the definition of premature ejaculation (PE), which has been developed by the International Society for Sexual Medicine. After the subtype of PE has been defined, patient's expectations should be discussed thoroughly and pharmacotherapy must be considered as the first-line treatment for patients with lifelong PE, whereas treating the underlying cause must be the initial goal for patients with acquired PE. Haemospermia is defined as the appearance of blood in the ejaculate. Several reasons of haemospermia have been acknowledged; the primary goal over the management work-up is to exclude malignant conditions and treat any other underlying cause.

CONCLUSIONS

The 2021 guidelines on sexual and reproductive health summarise the most recent findings, and advise in terms of diagnosis and treatment of male hypogonadism and sexual dysfunction for their use in clinical practice. These guidelines reflect the multidisciplinary nature of their management.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Updated European Association of Urology guidelines on sexual and reproductive health are presented, addressing the diagnosis and treatment of the most prevalent conditions in men. Patients must be fully informed of all relevant diagnostic and therapeutic options and, together with their treating physicians, decide on optimal personalised management strategies.

Influence of Topical Anesthesia on Superficial Sensitivity: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study on 48 Healthy Subjects

BACKGROUND

Topical anesthetics are used in noninvasive transdermal anesthesia to decrease the superficial pain sensation threshold during dermatologic surgery. Combined pain relief and sensitivity loss can avoid discomfort during the surgery.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this placebo-controlled study was to compare the efficacy of 3 commonly used topical agents by collating loss of sensitivity over time.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three topical anesthetic creams, a topical anti-inflammatory cream, and a moisturizing cream were applied on the left volar forearm of each of the 48 healthy Caucasian participants. Sensitivity was assessed with the dynamic 2-point discrimination and the Semmes-Weinstein test at 0, 60, 90, 120, 150, and 180 minutes after cream application.

RESULTS

After 180 minutes, benzocaine showed a significantly lower 2-point discrimination reduction than lidocaine alone and a lidocaine and prilocaine mixture. Sensory threshold measurements by the Semmes-Weinstein test after 60 minutes revealed a significantly higher effect with lidocaine alone and with the lidocaine and prilocaine mixture than with benzocaine.

CONCLUSION

The authors found a stronger skin sensitivity reduction by the eutectic lidocaine and prilocaine mixture and lidocaine alone compared with benzocaine. We suggest increased discomfort reduction in topical anesthetic supported dermatologic surgery by the eutectic mixture and lidocaine alone.

Effectiveness and tolerability of lidocaine 5% spray in the treatment of lifelong premature ejaculation patients: a randomized single-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial

This study aimed to appraise the effectiveness and tolerability of lidocaine 5% spray in the treatment of patients with premature ejaculation (PE). The current study has been designed as a randomized single-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. It was done on 150 lifelong PE patients with normal erection. They were randomized evenly categorized into two treatment groups. Group 1 (n = 75); was given on demand lidocaine 5% spray for 8 weeks. Group 2 (n = 75); was given placebo in the form on demand alcohol spray for 8 weeks. All medications were applied on the glans penis for 10-20 min, and then cleaned before planned sexual intercourse. Patients were evaluated with the Arabic Index of Premature Ejaculation (AIPE) scores, intravaginal ejaculatory latency times (IELTs), and frequency of sexual intercourse before and after treatments. The mean values of the AIPE scores, IELTs, and sexual intercourse frequency in the lidocaine 5% spray group were statistically significant increased than the group of placebo after treatment (P value 0.0001). The present study deduced that local use of lidocaine 5% spray on glans penis 10-20 min prior to sexual intercourse could significantly improve PE patients, with tolerated local adverse effects.

Fortacin™ Spray for the Treatment of Premature Ejaculation

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a common complaint of male sexual dysfunction affecting men and their partners and consequently causing significant personal and interpersonal distress. Increased sensitivity of the glans penis and abnormalities of the afferent-efferent reflex pathway within the ejaculatory process are involved in the occurrence of PE. Drugs that either selectively reduce penile sensitization or modify the afferent-efferent reflex are well established therapeutic options for PE. Fortacin™ is the first topical treatment to be officially approved for the treatment of primary PE in adult men, and is mentioned as an experimental aerosol (as TEMPE) in the current European Association of Urology guidelines. It was approved for use in the European Union and launched in the United Kingdom in November 2016. Fortacin™ is a eutectic-like mixture of lidocaine 150 mg/mL and prilocaine 50 mg/mL that meets the requirements of an ideal treatment for PE because it is fast acting (within 5 minutes), has durable effects, can be easily used "on-demand", and shows minimal side-effects. The metered-dose spray delivery system allows the desensitizing agents to be deposited in a dose-controlled, concentrated film onto the glans penis consequently reducing its sensitivity. This is translated into a delaying of the ejaculatory latency time without adversely affecting the sensation of ejaculation and orgasmic pleasure. The efficacy and safety of Fortacin™ have been proven by means of increased ejaculatory latency, control, and sexual satisfaction in large scale studies demonstrating the significant benefits for both patients and their partners.

Emerging and investigational drugs for premature ejaculation

Over the past 20−30 years, the premature ejaculation (PE) treatment paradigm, previously limited to behavioural psychotherapy, has expanded to include drug treatment. Pharmacotherapy for PE predominantly targets the multiple neurotransmitters and receptors involved in the control of ejaculation which include serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, norepinephrine, gamma amino-butyric acid (GABA) and nitric oxide (NO). The objective of this article is to review emerging PE interventions contemporary data on the treatment of PE was reviewed and critiqued using the principles of evidence-based medicine. Multiple well-controlled evidence-based studies have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in delaying ejaculation, confirming their role as first-line agents for the medical treatment of lifelong and acquired PE. Daily dosing of SSRIs is likely to be associated with superior fold increases in IELT compared to on-demand SSRIs. On-demand SSRIs are less effective but may fulfill the treatment goals of many patients. Integrated pharmacotherapy and CBT may achieve superior treatment outcomes in some patients. PDE-5 inhibitors alone or in combination with SSRIs should be limited to men with acquired PE secondary to co-morbid ED. New on-demand rapid acting SSRIs, oxytocin receptor antagonists, or single agents that target multiple receptors may form the foundation of more effective future on-demand medication. Current evidence confirms the efficacy and safety of dapoxetine, off-label SSRI drugs, tramadol and topical anaesthetics drugs. Treatment with α1-adrenoceptor antagonists cannot be recommended until the results of large well-designed RCTs are published in major international peer-reviewed medical journals. As our understanding of the neurochemical control of ejaculation improves, new therapeutic targets and candidate molecules will be identified which may increase our pharmacotherapeutic armamentarium.

Dapoxetine and the treatment of premature ejaculation

Background

Premature ejaculation (PE) is the most common male sexual complaint. Off-label oral selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed for the treatment of PE. Dapoxetine is a short-acting SSRI specifically designed for on-demand use. The objective of this communication is to summarize the clinical and physiological evidence regarding the role of the serotonergic pathway and specifically dapoxetine in the treatment of PE.

Methods

A PubMed search was conducted on articles reporting data on dapoxetine for the treatment of PE. Articles describing the pathophysiology and treatment options for PE were additionally included for review.

Results

The etiology of PE is multi-factorial in nature. There are many treatment options for PE such as psychological/behavioral therapy, topical anesthetic agents, phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5) inhibitors, and tramadol hydrochloride. SSRIs play a major role in PE treatment. Animal and clinical studies in addition to its pharmacokinetic document dapoxetine’s clinical efficacy and safety for on-demand treatment of PE.

Conclusions

Dapoxetine demonstrates clinical efficacy and a favorable side effect profile. Dapoxetine is currently the oral drug of choice for on-demand treatment of PE.

Current and Emerging Treatments for Premature Ejaculation

INTRODUCTION

Over the past 20-30 years, the premature ejaculation (PE) treatment paradigm, previously limited to behavioral psychotherapy, has expanded to include drug treatment. Pharmacotherapy for PE predominantly targets the multiple neurotransmitters and receptors involved in the control of ejaculation, which include serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, norepinephrine, gamma amino-butyric acid (GABA) and nitric oxide (NO).

AIM

The objective of this article is to review current and emerging PE interventions.

METHODS

Contemporary data on the treatment of PE were reviewed and critiqued using the principles of evidence-based medicine.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Integrated pharmacotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may achieve superior treatment outcomes in some patients. Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors alone or in combination with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) should be limited to men with acquired PE secondary to comorbid erectile dysfunction (ED). New on-demand rapid-acting SSRIs, oxytocin receptor antagonists, or single agents that target multiple receptors may form the foundation of more effective future on-demand medication.

RESULTS

Multiple well-controlled evidence-based studies have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of SSRIs in delaying ejaculation, confirming their role as first-line agents for the medical treatment of lifelong and acquired PE. Daily dosing of SSRIs is likely to be associated with superior fold increases in intravaginal ejaculation latency time compared with on-demand SSRIs. On-demand SSRIs are less effective but may fulfill the treatment goals of many patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Current evidence suggests that psychosexual CBT has a limited role in the contemporary management of PE and confirms the efficacy and safety of dapoxetine, off-label SSRI drugs, and topical anesthetics drugs. Treatment with tramadol, α1-adrenoceptor antagonists cannot be recommended until the results of large, well-designed randomized controlled trials are published in major international peer-reviewed medical journals. As our understanding of the neurochemical control of ejaculation improves, new therapeutic targets and candidate molecules will be identified, which may increase our pharmacotherepeutic armamentarium. McMahon CG. Current and emerging treatments for premature ejaculation. Sex Med Rev 2015;3:183-202.

Comparison of paroxetine and dapoxetine, a novel selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor in the treatment of premature ejaculation

Dapoxetine hydrochloride is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor and the first drug approved for the on-demand treatment of premature ejaculation (PE). Our objective in this study was to characterize the efficacy of on-demand dapoxetine (30 and 60 mg) and daily paroxetine (20 mg) usage in treating PE. We conducted a 1 month study involving a total of 150 patients. Patients were divided into three groups of 50. Group 1 were treated with on-demand dapoxetine (30 mg), Group 2 with on-demand dapoxetine (60 mg) and Group 3 with daily paroxetine (20 mg). Our outcome measurement was increased from baseline intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) after treatment. The IELT increased from baseline to posttreatment by 117%, 117% and 170% in the paroxetine group (P < 0.01), 30 mg dapoxetine group (P < 0.01) and 60 mg dapoxetine group (P < 0.01), respectively. The increase from baseline IELT were similar for the 30 mg dapoxetine and paroxetine groups (P > 0.05), while the 60 mg dapoxetine group had a larger posttreatment IELT increase compared with the 30 mg dapoxetine (P < 0.05) and paroxetine (P < 0.01) groups. Dapoxetine (60 mg) 1-3 h before planned intercourse is a very effective treatment modality for PE. However, an on-demand dose of 30 mg dapoxetine is no more effective than the currently prescribed paroxetine treatment.

Evolving therapeutic strategies for premature ejaculation: The search for on-demand treatment - topical versus systemic

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a common sexual dysfunction affecting 20% to 30% of men worldwide. Definitions of PE vary, but it is typically characterized by short intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) with concomitant sexual dissatisfaction and distress. PE may be lifelong or acquired, but its etiology remains unclear. Treatment of PE typically involves pharmacotherapy, particularly when lifelong. Although there are numerous reports on the off-label use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other compounds, only 2 treatments have been evaluated in randomized controlled phase 3 clinical trials: PSD502 and dapoxetine (SSRI). Both significantly improved IELT and patient-reported outcome domains of ejaculatory control, sexual satisfaction, and distress as measured by the index of premature ejaculation (IPE), compared with placebo. They constitute the focus of this review. Evidence demonstrated that PSD502, dapoxetine and other SSRIs all significantly improve the symptoms of PE. Systemic use of SSRIs presents risks associated with the known pharmacology of this class. PSD502 allows for topical on-demand treatment applied applied immediately before intercourse, and is not associated with systemic adverse events.

Dynamic in-situ eutectic formation for topical drug delivery

Objectives

The relationship between the solution-state chemistry of eutectic systems and their transmembrane transport characteristics is difficult to define as these mixtures are sensitive to delivery vehicle-induced penetration enhancement. Through in-situ formation of a molten eutectic mixture using highly evaporative sprays this study aimed to gain an understanding of solution-state thermodynamic and chemical properties of eutectic combinations pertinent to transmembrane transport in the absence of a delivery vehicle.

Methods

In-situ molten lidocaine–prilocaine eutectics were formed using a hydroflouroalkane (HFA) propellant. Transport through silicone membranes and human skin in upright Franz diffusion cells was determined using in-house manufactured creams as controls.

Key findings

The application of the two drugs in an HFA spray produced a molten oil even when the melting point of the drug mixture was above the experimental temperature at the membrane surface. In the absence of vehicle effects, molecule presentation to the membrane interface was most effective using a lidocaine-rich mixture of 0.7% w/w lidocaine:prilocaine – 1985.06 ± 128.87 µg/h/cm2.

Conclusions

There appeared to be no link between melting point and transmembrane transport of lidocaine:prilocaine from a eutectic mixture. The rate of drug presentation to the membrane interface, which was highest in drug-rich, high-activity molten eutectic mixtures, was the driver for transmembrane transport in the absence of significant barrier interactions.

Update on treatments for premature ejaculation

Current and upcoming treatment options for premature ejaculation (PE) are of global clinical interest. In 2008, the International Society for Sexual Medicine published an evidence-based definition for PE. While there are no US Food and Drug Administration-approved therapies for PE, the American Urological Association 2004 guidelines state the serotonergic antidepressants paroxetine, sertraline, fluoxetine and clomipramine and the topical lidocaine-prilocaine cream are effective treatment options. However, there are limitations associated with their use, which may be overcome by PE-specific therapies currently in development. Two agents that are in advanced stages of clinical development include: (i) dapoxetine, an on-demand short-acting selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, and (ii) PSD502, a metered-dose aerosol containing lidocaine and prilocaine, also for on-demand treatment. Another on-demand agent in development is tramadol, a weak opioid that is currently approved for treating pain. Coupled with efficient diagnosis, it is hoped that these newer agents will improve the quality of life for patients who suffer from PE.

Standards for clinical trials in male sexual dysfunctions

INTRODUCTION

Clinical trials in male sexual dysfunction (MSD) are expanding. Consequently, there is a need for consensus standards in this area.

AIM

To develop an evidence-based, state-of-the-art consensus report on standards for clinical trials in MSD.

METHODS

A literature review was performed examining clinical trials in erectile dysfunction (ED), premature ejaculation (PE), delayed/absent ejaculation, libido disorders/loss of desire, hypogonadism, and Peyronie's disease, focusing on publications published in the last 20 years. This manuscript represents the opinions of eight experts from seven countries developed in a consensus process. This document was presented for peer review and debate in a public forum and revisions were made based on recommendations of chairpersons to the International Consultation on Sexual Medicine.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

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

RESULTS

According to experience and recent publications in dealing with clinical trials in sexual dysfunction, recommendations have been made for conducting trials in patients with ED, PE, delayed ejaculation, libido disorders, hypogonadism, and Peyronie's disease.

CONCLUSIONS

It is important that future clinical trials are conducted using standards upon which investigators can rely when reading manuscripts or conducting new trials in this field.

PSD502 improves ejaculatory latency, control and sexual satisfaction when applied topically 5 min before intercourse in men with premature ejaculation: results of a phase III, multicentre, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effect of PSD502 applied topically 5 min before intercourse on the Index of Premature Ejaculation (IPE) and intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) of men with lifelong premature ejaculation (PE) defined according to the International Society of Sexual Medicine (ISSM) definition; secondary objectives were to evaluate the safety and tolerability of PSD502 in patients with PE, and their sexual partners.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Men aged >18 years, in stable heterosexual, monogamous relationships, and with lifelong PE diagnosed according to both the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition (text revision) criteria and the ISSM definition, consented (together with their partners) to enter the baseline period of the study. Patients who documented an IELT of <or=1 min with two or more of the first three sexual encounters during the 4-week baseline period were randomized, in a 2:1 ratio, to receive double-blind treatment with PSD502 (three actuations of spray each containing 7.5 mg lidocaine and 2.5 mg prilocaine applied 5 min before intercourse) or placebo for 3 months. Patients completed IPE and Premature Ejaculation Profile (PEP) questionnaires at entry and at monthly clinic visits, and recorded stopwatch-timed IELT during each sexual encounter. Patients rated the quality of their orgasms on a 5-point scale at baseline and at the end of the treatment period, and rated the study medication on a 4-point scale. Safety was assessed by collecting adverse event data.

RESULTS

In all, 300 men with PE were randomized from 31 centres in Europe. The geometric mean (range) IELT over the 3-month treatment period increased from a baseline of 0.6 min in both groups to 3.8 (0.3-57.8) and 1.1 (0-15.0) min in the PSD502 and placebo groups, respectively. Adjusting for treatment-group imbalances, this represents a 6.3-fold and 1.7-fold increase in adjusted geometric means. There were significantly greater increases in the scores for the IPE domains of ejaculatory control and sexual satisfaction in the PSD502 group than in the placebo group, with a mean (sem) 7.0 (0.59)-point difference between treatments in change from baseline in the IPE domain for ejaculatory control and a 5.9 (0.57)- point difference in change from baseline in the IPE domain for sexual satisfaction (both P < 0.001). This was supported by improvements in all secondary endpoints. At the end of the treatment period 66% of patients rated PSD502 as 'good' or 'excellent'. PSD502 was well tolerated and no systemic adverse events were reported. Localized treatment-related adverse events were reported by 2.6% and 3.1% of patients and partners, respectively.

CONCLUSION

PSD502 applied topically 5 min before intercourse improved ejaculatory latency and significantly improved ejaculatory control and sexual satisfaction, factors relevant for acceptance of a PE treatment by both patient/physician and regulatory authorities. PSD502 was well tolerated by both patients and partners, with no systemic side-effects and a low incidence of localized effects, and was rated favourably by most users. PSD502 therefore appears to offer significant advantages over other therapies in development for the treatment of PE.