Efficacy and safety of sildenafil citrate in the treatment of men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction

Background Erectile dysfunction isa common, multi-factorial disorder. Aims To evaluate the efficacy, tolerability and frequency of use of sildena fil citrate in men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction of no establi shed organic cause. Method This double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, flexible dose, tw o-way crossover study was conducted at four centres in the UK in 44 men wit h mild to moderate erectile dysfunction of no clinically obvious organic ca use. The study included two 28-day treatment periods, during which time sil denafil or placebo(25-75 mg, based on efficacy) was taken as required. Results Compared with placebo, sildenafil was associated with increases in frequency of use, erections adequate for sexual intercourse and level of se xual satisfaction (P < 0.0001). More patients receiving sildenafil stated t hey would use the treatment again compared with those receiving placebo (P < 0.0001). There were no discontinuations due to sildenafil treatment. Conclusions Sildenafil is effective and well tolerated in men with mild to moderate erectile dysfunction of no clinically identifiable organic cause. Declaration of interest Research supported by Pfizer Inc.