Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors: unmet needs

Erectile dysfunction (ED) has been revolutionized during the last two decades, as several treatment options are available today. Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil) are currently the first choice treatment option for ED by most physicians and patients due to their high efficacy rates and favourable safety profiles. Despite the fact that more than 50 million ED patients have been treated successfully worldwide with PDE5i several issues remain to be addressed. Patients with severe neurologic damage, diabetes mellitus, or severe vascular disease may be resistant to PDE5i. Inappropriate instructions, lack of follow-up and lack of patient-centered care models have been identified as main reasons for "nonresponse", leading to drop-out rates of even > 50%. Preservation of corporal smooth muscle with chronic administration of PDE5i has been reported and there is a substantial body of evidence for beneficial effects of these drugs on endothelium and cardiovascular function. Finally, improvement of lower urinary symptoms after PDE5i administration has been reported and a possible role on treatment of premature ejaculation has been proposed. Many new PDE5i are candidates to enter the market in the forthcoming years. However, pharmacokinetic differences should be obvious to consider a truly better option for patients. Patients must be aware of all treatment options since no ideal treatment exists and physicians must offer personalized medicine to their patients in the future. The development and adaptation of a patient-centered care model in sexual medicine will increase efficacy and safety of current and future treatments.