Impotence Update

Impotence Update

IMPOTENCE UPDATE

In VOICE, Vol. 11, No.4, fall 1996, we published

"Impotence and How to Prevail," a review of the least-discussed of diabetic

complications: Male impotence, the inability to achieve and sustain an erection sufficient

for penetration. In our culture, men who cannot "perform," for whatever reason,

often feel "diminished," so when difficulties arise, rather than seeking medical

help, they conceal and they suffer.

"Suffering in silence" is never a good

idea. Many conditions can cause impotence, and "playing hero" can delay needed

medical intervention. It can also wreak havoc with a relationship! If you're facing this,

talk to your doctor, or find a specialist (ideally a urologist who specializes in male

sexual dysfunction). It's not hopeless! Although more than 50% of diabetic men may

experience this complication, new and more effective impotence treatments are constantly

coming on line.

In the 1996 article (still available as an

off-print, free by request, from the VOICE office), we reviewed the available treatments,

everything from vacuum devices and topical medications to penile injections and surgery.

There have been further developments since that time.

The months since publication have seen final FDA

approval of Pharmacia/Upjohn's Caverject, both for penile injection and in the VIVUS, Inc.

Muse System (a non-invasive medication dispenser that fits directly into the urethra).

Schwarz Pharma's Edex is a similar medication, FDA approved in 1997; and Harvard

Scientific's LLPGE1, now in FDA Phase II trials, will be similar to the MUSE System.

A number of topical and oral impotence

medications are being tested at this time, by researchers in the U.S., England, Europe,

Mexico, and Israel. Some are in Phase II or Phase III trials, and may be on the pharmacy

shelf shortly. Zonagen's Vasomax and Pfizer's Viagra are two new oral treatments for

impotence, both in Phase III trials.

It is worth noting that testosterone, male

hormone, topical or by injection, is of extremely limited use in cases of

physically-caused impotence, such as follows diabetes.

If you are experiencing sexual dysfunction,

diabetogenic or otherwise, talk to your doctor! There are many alternatives to suffering

in silence, and the odds that your particular difficulties can be resolved are extremely

good.