The management of erectile dysfunction in the community

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a widely occurring benign disorder that affects men of all ages. The prevalence and severity of ED increases with age and results in considerable distress and impact on quality of life for those who suffer from it. As ED is associated with a wide variety of underlying conditions and co-morbidities there is a requirement for diversity of treatment options beyond those currently available. In the management of the ED patient both primary care and specialist physicians have an important role to play. This article reports on a stepwise approach for the diagnosis and treatment of ED, with an emphasis on a 'shared care' approach. The suitability of apomorphine SL (Uprima) for the front line management of the ED patient is described.