Effects of testosterone on erectile function: implications for the therapy of erectile dysfunction

Area of Science:

• Andrology
• Urology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Erectile dysfunction (ED) prevalence increases with age, often stemming from organic causes rather than solely psychological factors.
• Testosterone deficiency (hypogonadism) significantly impacts erectile function and penile health.
• Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors are a common ED treatment, but some patients do not respond adequately.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effects of testosterone therapy on erectile function in men with ED and hypogonadism.
• To evaluate testosterone's role in patients with ED unresponsive to PDE-5 inhibitors.
• To summarize findings from studies published between 1991 and 2006.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search of computerized databases and printed references.
• Analysis of animal models demonstrating testosterone's role in erectile function regulation.
• Review of clinical studies on testosterone therapy for ED and hypogonadism.

Main Results:

• Testosterone is crucial for central and peripheral regulation of erectile function.
• Testosterone deprivation negatively affects penile tissues and nerves, reversible with androgen administration.
• Combined therapy with PDE-5 inhibitors and testosterone shows promise for improving ED in hypogonadal patients.

Conclusions:

• Androgen therapy is effective for improving ED in hypogonadal patients, including those resistant to PDE-5 inhibitors.
• Testosterone therapy offers a safe and convenient method for correcting low testosterone levels.
• Testosterone plays a vital role in maintaining erectile function and penile structural integrity.