impotence treatments

Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, abbreviated as PDE-5 inhibitors, refer to a group of drugs used for erectile dysfunction treatment. Viagra (sildenafil citrate), Cialis (tadalafil) and Levitra (vardenafil) are among the most prominent medicines containing PDE-5 inhibitors.

How do PDE-5 inhibitors work?

PDE-5 inhibitors work on an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5). This enzyme can reduce blood flow to the penis by breaking down a cyclic nucleotide called cGMP, causing weak or no erection at the time of sexual arousal. cGMP can help the smooth muscles in the penis relax, which in turn, can dilate the penile arteries for increased blood flow. Phosphodiesterase type 5 is a naturally occurring enzyme in the corpus cavernosa chambers of the penis. When you are sexually stimulated, neurones in the corpus cavernosa chambers release nitric oxide – a chemical that aids in formation of cGMP. So for you to get and maintain an erection, the presence of cGMP is a must.

Source:  What are PDE-5 inhibitors?

Causes of Impotence:

Some of the most common causes of impotence are as follows:

• Impotence can be caused by diseases such as diabetes mellitus, kidney disease, a endocrine gland disorder, etc
• An erection may be prevented because of the problem in penis structure or the tissues surrounding it.
• Factors like stress, grief, anxiety or relationships problems.
• Drug abuse and alcohol consumption beyond a limit.
• Smoking and obesity which affects the blood flow can cause impotence problem.
• Impotence can be caused by low levels of testosterone in older men over the age of 65 years. This condition can be corrected with the help of a Hormone replacement therapy.
• It can be caused as side effect of certain prescription drugs like antihistamines, tranquilizers, high blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, appetite suppressants, etc

Treatments for Impotence:

Depending on the cause of the impotence problem, there are various treatments available for it. These treatments may include therapy to help solve relationship problems, counselling to overcome stress and anxiety, weight loss treatment to control obesity, change in life style, alternation in prescribed medication which causes impotence, use of impotence pills or by use of vacuum device like penis pumps that help to overcome erectile dysfunction.