A new alternative to traditional treatments is helping to break the silence about impotence and erectile dysfunction. The ease of treatment with a pill called Viagra , which was approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in March, has primary care physicians and urologists prescribing the new drug in impressive numbers. Physicians emphasize to candidates for the treatment that Viagra will not produce an erection, but will enhance its quality. During tests, the drug produced satisfactory erections in approximately 60 to 80 percent of men with varying degrees of impotence due to a variety of causes. Although men with a psychological reasons for erectile dysfunction had the best results, the pill may also work well in men with diabetes, prostate cancer surgery, and circulatory problems.
Doses vary, and a physician can determine the proper dose for the desired effect in each patient.
Not all men will respond to Viagra, but a urologist can help recommend alternative therapies after an appropriate evaluation. The future treatment of impotence with pills is bright, as other oral medications are being developed and tested for availability in the near future. Contact Information Copyright 2001 Methodist Health Care System, Houston, Tx. All Rights Reserved. Please read our disclaimer and privacy policy .