28Jun
Successful treatment of erectile dysfunction with sildenafil leads to an improvement in depression if this is also present.
Erectile dysfunction commonly exists alongside depression, and is particularly common among older men and those with cardiovascular risk factors. But it’s not known whether impotence causes depression, or whether it happens the other way round. Nor is it clear what role risk factors like diabetes or high blood pressure may play in this scenario.
Researchers at Columbia University reveal that treating erectile dysfunction can lift depression. They gave either sildenafil – a known treatment for erection problems – or placebo to men with mild to moderate depression and erectile dysfunction attending a group of 20 urology clinics in the US. After 12 weeks, the men who had responded to treatment (whether they were on active drug or placebo) also reported an improvement in depressive symptoms. This suggests, though does not prove, that erectile dysfunction leads to depression. Clear the sexual problem up, and psychological health improves too. Further research is needed to see whether the benefits will be maintained over time and if the drug can help men with more severe depression.
Copyright 2013 NewsFix.ca
NewsFix LLC.
