Central nervous system agents in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
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.
Kendirci
Muammer
M
Department of Urology, Tulane University, Health Sciences Center, SL-42, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
Walls
Melissa M
MM
Hellstrom
Wayne J G
WJ
D001058:Apomorphine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002491:Central Nervous System Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D018491:Dopamine Agonists / Q000627:therapeutic use; D007172:Erectile Dysfunction / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male
D002491:Central Nervous System Agents; D018491:Dopamine Agonists; D001058:Apomorphine