1. ¹Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
2. ²Department of Urology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA

Correspondence: Dr H Pimentel, Department of Urology, University of Illinois at Chicago, Room 515 CSN, 840 South Wood Street, M/C 955, Chicago, IL 60612, USA. E-mail: hpimente100@gmail.com

Received 4 October 2007; Revised 16 November 2007; Accepted 16 November 2007; Published online 13 December 2007.

Abstract

Erectile dysfunction is a prevalent disorder that not only affects men with the disorder but also their partners. Significant improvements in the sexual health of these couples have been achieved with the introduction of phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Currently PDE5 inhibitors are used on an on-demand basis. New evidence regarding the effects of PDE5 inhibitors on the underlying pathophysiologic processes that cause erectile dysfunction have sparked interest in the continuous dosing of these medications. We will discuss the biological background and the available clinical evidence for the continuous use of phosphodiesterase inhibitors in erectile dysfunction. Lastly, we will discuss the emerging clinical data for the use of daily PDE5 inhibitors in men with lower urinary tract symptoms.