Twelve-month comparison of two treatments for erectile dysfunction: self-injection versus external vacuum devices.

Abstract

This study directly compared two nonsurgical treatments for erectile dysfunction, self-injection of papaverine/phentolamine and external vacuum devices, in terms of usage rates, effectiveness, side effects, dropout rates, and impact on patient sexual and psychologic functioning. Both alternatives were regularly, successfully, and safely used by patients, though dropout rates were higher for self-injection. Both produced erections of improved quality, and effected sustained improvements in frequency of intercourse, orgasm, and sexual satisfaction. Spontaneous erections also improved with both treatments. General psychiatric symptomatology was decreased, and anxiety was improved. There were no differences between the two treatments in sexual or psychologic impact. Relative contraindications and esthetic considerations are presented.

• Authors: L A Turner, S E Althof, S B Levine, D R Bodner, E D Kursh, M I Resnick
• Journal: Urology (Urology) Vol. 39 Issue 2 Pg. 139-44 (Feb 1992) ISSN: 0090-4295 [Print] United States
• PMID: 1736506 (Publication Type: Comparative Study, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Papaverine
• Phentolamine

Topics

• Coitus
• Drug Therapy, Combination
• Erectile Dysfunction (psychology, therapy)
• Follow-Up Studies
• Humans
• Injections
• Male
• Multivariate Analysis
• Papaverine (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
• Patient Compliance
• Phentolamine (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
• Prospective Studies
• Self Administration
• Time Factors
• Vacuum