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Diabetes and erectile dysfunction

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Abstract

Many diabetic men suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED). The etiology of diabetic impotence is complex, with neurogenic, vasculogenic, and disordered local neuroeffector regulatory mechanisms contributing to the pathology of ED. The introduction of oral phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors has revolutionized medical therapy for ED. These drugs have become the primary initial treatment for ED, although the medications are less efficacious in diabetic than in nondiabetic patients. Treatment often relies on second-line therapies, including intracavernous injections of vasoactive substances and implantation of prosthetic devices. Recent work with animal models has advanced our knowledge of the molecular pathways involved in diabetic impotence, specifically the discovery of the adverse effects of advanced glycation end-products. Further work may elucidate chemopreventive strategies for the management of diabetic patients. This paper reviews the mechanisms and management of ED in patients with diabetes mellitus.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Urology, University of California, Los Angeles, 10833 LeConte Avenue, Room 66-124, CHS, 90095, Los Angeles, CA, USA

    Jacob Rajfer MD

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  1. John Gore MD
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  2. Jacob Rajfer MD
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Gore, J., Rajfer, J. Diabetes and erectile dysfunction. Curr sex health rep 1, 87–91 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11930-004-0022-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11930-004-0022-3

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