Cardiovascular effects of oral pharmacotherapy in erectile dysfunction

Several drugs have been developed to treat patients with erectile dysfunction (ED). In general, patients prefer orally administered drugs. The use of these drugs (e.g. sildenafil and apomorphine) is reviewed. Because ED is a common problem in men with vascular disease it is important to assess the effect of these drugs on the cardiovascular system. The safe use of these drugs in patients with vascular disease needs to be clearly established in appropriately designed trials.