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Erectile Dysfunction: Clinical Trials
There are currently several clinical trials under way for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) caused by prostate cancer.
Trial 1
In this trial, the effectiveness of nerve-sparing prostatectomy (surgical removal of the entire prostate while preserving the erection-controlling nerves), with and without nerve grafting, followed by standard therapy is being examined. Participants will be in one of two groups: the first group will have nerve-sparing prostatectomy with nerve grafting, then will use a standard therapy such as Viagra, a vacuum constriction device, injection therapy, or MUSE (suppository in urethra for erections) therapy. Participants in the second group will have the nerve-sparing surgery without nerve grafting, and will use the same standard therapy as the first group. The objectives of the study are to compare the two types of surgery for effectiveness and their effects on potency rates and erection quality in men with prostate cancer.
Trial 2
This study will be evaluating the effectiveness of Prograf, a medication known to suppress the immune system, in the prevention of erectile dysfunction in men who have had a nerve-sparing prostatectomy. Participants will be in one of two groups: the first group will receive the active medication and the second group will be given a placebo (sugar pill). The study will look at the percentage of people who can achieve spontaneous erectile function.
Trial 3
In the third trial, researchers are examining the effectiveness of erectile dysfunction treatment with Viagra versus a placebo for men with prostate cancer who have undergone radiation therapy and total androgen suppression. The studies are attempting to determine if there is a difference in overall sexual function and satisfaction between Viagra and placebo.
Trial 4
This study will be looking at the effects of radiation therapy, high energy X-rays to destroy cancer cells, on erectile dysfunction. It will investigate whether reducing the dose of radiation helps to prevent ED. Participants will be placed into one of two groups: the first one will receive the standard radiation therapy while the second one will receive a restricted dose of radiation.
Reviewed by the doctors at the Glickman Urological Institute at The Cleveland Clinic.
WebMD Medical Reference provided in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic
Erectile Dysfunction Guide
Indication
Uroxatral® (alfuzosin HCl 10 mg extended-release tablets) is an alpha1-blocker for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of BPH.
Important Safety Information
Do not take UROXATRAL if you have liver problems or if you are taking antifungal drugs like ketoconazole or itraconazole, or HIV drugs like ritonavir.
UROXATRAL can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, especially when starting treatment. This may lead to fainting, dizziness, and lightheadedness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do any dangerous activity until you know how UROXATRAL will affect you. This is especially important if you already have a problem with low blood pressure or take medicines to treat high blood pressure. There may be an increased risk of low blood pressure and fainting when taking UROXATRAL in combination with blood pressure medication or nitrates, or erectile dysfunction medication.
If considering cataract surgery (clouding of the eyes), tell your eye surgeon that you are currently taking UROXATRAL or have previously been treated with an alpha-blocker.
Before taking UROXATRAL, tell your doctor if you have kidney problems.
Also, tell your doctor if you or any family member(s) have or take medications for a rare heart condition known as congenital prolongation of the QT interval.
BPH and prostate cancer can cause the same symptoms. However, UROXATRAL is not a treatment for prostate cancer.
The most common side effects with UROXATRAL are dizziness, upper respiratory tract infection, headache, and tiredness.
Please see UROXATRAL full prescribing information.
