Abstract:
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a trivial condition with a prevailing incidence worldwide. Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE-5) have
revolutionised the treatment of ED and are regarded as one of the most successful drug groups in modern medicine. Generally
PDE-5 inhibitors are well tolerated and the incidence of side-effects is low, however a small percentage of individuals experience
headache, flushing and abdominal discomfort, resulting in discontinuation of therapy. This has led to the development of
second generation PDE-5 inhibitors, displaying more selectivity for the PDE-5 enzyme thereby reducing treatment interruption
and improving compliance. Several other treatment modalities, including testosterone replacement therapy and prostaglandin
administration are available for resistant or failed first-line treatment. This review provides an update on the current, and future,
available drugs used in the management of ED.