Central nervous system agents in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Abstract

In the last two decades, a better understanding of the mechanisms governing erectile function and the pathophysiologies underlying erectile dysfunction (ED) have led re-searchers to investigate novel treatment concepts. Selective type-5 phosphodiesterase inhibitors are recommended as first-line therapy because of their high efficacy, but 30% to 40% of patients who have ED do not respond adequately to these agents and require alternative methods. The central nervous system plays a fundamental role in sexual behavior. Animal models have advanced our understanding of the neuroanatomic and neuropharmacologic basis of centrally induced penile erections. Clinical research with apomorphine has demonstrated efficacy in men who have a range of ED. Recent interest has focused on other centrally acting agents for ED treatment, including the melanocortin receptor agonists.

• Authors: Muammer Kendirci, Melissa M Walls, Wayne J G Hellstrom
• Journal: The Urologic clinics of North America (Urol Clin North Am) Vol. 32 Issue 4 Pg. 487-501, vii (Nov 2005) ISSN: 0094-0143 [Print] United States
• PMID: 16291040 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Central Nervous System Agents
• Dopamine Agonists
• Apomorphine

Topics

• Apomorphine (therapeutic use)
• Central Nervous System Agents (therapeutic use)
• Clinical Trials as Topic
• Dopamine Agonists (therapeutic use)
• Erectile Dysfunction (drug therapy)
• Humans
• Male