Anti-impotence Cream Effectively Reduces ED

Alprox-TD (alprostadil), manufacturedby NexMed, has been proven safe andeffective for the treatment of erectiledysfunction (ED), according to 2 largestudies. More than 1700 men with EDwere randomized to receive 100 to 300mcg of alprostadil cream or placebocream. Erectile function scores increasedby an average of 1.6 to 2.5points over the baseline for those in thealprostadil group and decreased by 0.7points for patients in the placebo group.Scores for vaginal penetration and maintenanceof erection until ejaculation alsoimproved "slightly but significantly."According to researchers, 52% of patientsusing 300 mcg of alprostadil creamsaid their erections improved, comparedwith 20% of placebo patients. Researchersalso noted that study participantsincluded men with diabetes, men whohad their prostates removed, men takingnitrates or β-blockers, and men who didnot have success while taking Viagra(sildenafil). The average age of the studyparticipants was 60 years. Previously,alprostadil was injected directly into apatient's penis, but this administrationwas reported to be cumbersome anduncomfortable. The topical cream is enhancedwith skin-penetrating propertiesand is applied directly to the penis; themost frequently reported side effectswere burning and redness at the applicationsite. Results of the study were publishedin the August 2006 issue of Urology.

Ms. Farley is a freelance medicalwriter based in Wakefield, RI.