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Why do patients with erectile dysfunction abandon effective therapy with sildenafil (Viagra)?
1Department of Urology, Klinikum Weiden, Weiden, Germany. klotz@klinikum-weiden.de
International Journal of Impotence Research
|June 18, 2004
Summary
Sildenafil therapy abandonment was 31% in erectile dysfunction (ED) patients. Most patients stopped treatment due to lack of opportunity or desire for intercourse, not cost or side effects.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Pharmacology
- Men's Health
Background:
- Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects a significant number of men.
- Sildenafil is a common treatment for ED.
- Understanding treatment abandonment is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the rate of sildenafil therapy abandonment in patients with ED.
- To identify the primary reasons contributing to sildenafil noncompliance.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study conducted between January 2001 and December 2002.
- 234 patients with ED initiated sildenafil (50 or 100 mg) therapy across three centers.
- Telephone surveys were used to ascertain reasons for abandonment.
Main Results:
- The overall rate of sildenafil noncompliance was 31%.
- The majority of patients cited lack of opportunity or desire for sexual intercourse.
- Partner's lack of sexual interest was also a significant factor.
- Few patients reported high cost or adverse events as reasons for stopping medication.
Conclusions:
- Sildenafil noncompliance is substantial in ED patients.
- Psychosocial factors, rather than medication cost or side effects, are the primary drivers of abandonment.
- Addressing patient- and partner-related factors is key to improving sildenafil adherence.