The use of drugs for erectile dysfunction has a much broader health significance than previously thought.
In light of growing evidence on their systemic effects on blood vessel health, drugs that for decades have been seen only as therapies for sexual dysfunction are increasingly being considered as potential allies in the prevention and control of serious chronic diseases.
A new study, published February 13 in the scientific journal The World Journal of Men's Health, suggests that erectile dysfunction drugs, such as Viagra and Cialis, may contribute to reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, including stroke, as well as improving overall blood circulation. In addition, potential benefits have also been noted for diabetes, benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate), and urinary tract disorders.
These problems affect millions of men living with or who have had prostate cancer. Of particular concern is the fact that over 80 percent of men treated for prostate cancer develop erectile dysfunction, and therapeutic options continue to be underutilized.
Another study, conducted by the British organization Prostate Cancer UK, strengthens the arguments for the earlier and systematic inclusion of these drugs in therapeutic protocols for patients with prostate cancer, reports the Telegraph.
What are erectile dysfunction drugs and how do they work?
Erectile dysfunction drugs are classified as: phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors.
Their mechanism is based on blocking the PDE5 enzyme, which under normal conditions causes smooth muscle contraction and narrowing of blood vessels, restricting blood flow.
When this enzyme is inhibited, relaxation of the vascular wall and widening of the blood vessels (vasodilation) occurs, increasing blood flow to various tissues. The most well-known clinical effect occurs in the erectile tissue of the penis, where increased perfusion enables and maintains an erection.
However, the same hemodynamic mechanism is systemic in nature and is not limited to the reproductive system.
Studies show that the effects of PDE5 inhibitors extend to other organ systems, including the cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, pulmonary, and urinary systems.
Systemic importance: from the heart to the urinary tract
The potential benefit in heart disease is particularly emphasized, where vasodilation and reduced vascular resistance can improve circulation and reduce the load on the heart muscle.
The data also show a link between the use of these drugs and a reduced risk of stroke, which is related to improved blood vessel function and stabilization of cerebral circulation.
Benefits have also been observed in diabetes, a condition often associated with erectile dysfunction, especially in older men and those treated for prostate cancer.
Also, scientific literature identifies benefits in men with enlarged prostates, where relaxation of smooth muscle in the prostate and bladder neck facilitates urination and reduces lower urinary tract symptoms.
Therapy exists, but is little used
According to the organization Prostate Cancer UK, over half a million men in the United Kingdom are living with or have had prostate cancer.
Despite the high frequency of erectile dysfunction, PDE5 inhibitor therapy continues to be underused, even in patients with severe symptoms.
Experts are calling on primary care physicians to be more proactive and offer this therapy routinely.
According to specialist nurse Sophie Smith from Prostate Cancer UK, prostate cancer treatment often has significant consequences on sexual health, so erection medications should be discussed at the beginning of treatment.
She points out that many patients are hesitant to broach the subject due to shame or fear that they are "wasting the doctor's time."
Sexual health as part of quality of life
The experts' message is clear: sexual health is an essential component of quality of life, both during and after treatment.
Although these drugs are not suitable for everyone, for example for patients taking nitrates, there are therapeutic alternatives.. /Telegraph/
