Treating Male Sexual Dysfunction

Since the advent of Viagra in 1998, male sexual dysfunction has become a hot topic. High-profile politicians and sports figures are hawking its benefits, and televised testimonials are contributing to this new openness.

Still, many of the 30 million American men with sexual dysfunction are embarrassed by their condition, and, as a result, are reluctant to obtain the doctor's prescription for that little blue pill. It's these men that over-the-counter peddlers target with their radio and e-mail pitches: Cure impotence and premature ejaculation! Boost your self-image! Be the MAN you've always wanted to be! Your wife or girlfriend will be much happier, too!

Most of these over-the-counter remedies are pills packed with various herbs and supplements. So you wonder, do they work? One popular herb is Yohimbine, which is used for its ability to increase blood flow to the penis. However, Michael Murray, N.D., a leading lecturer and researcher in the field of natural medicine warns, "Yohimbine can induce anxiety, panic attacks and hallucinations in some individuals. Other side effects include elevations in blood pressure and heart rate, dizziness, headache and skin flushing."

Other concoctions claiming to increase penis size contain gingko biloba, which can increase blood flow but has not been studied for use in impotence.

Price is another consideration, as none of the OTC remedies are cheap. Generally, you'll pay between $29 and $59 for a one-month supply, but will need to take the supplements for eight weeks or more to notice a change. That comes to at least $48, not including shipping and handling.

So...Is It Worth It?
There are three types of male sexual dysfunction: problems with desire, problems with erection, problems with ejaculation -- or a combination of these. The causes can range from the side effects of medication, drugs or alcohol to medical or psychological diseases.

According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, "Male sexual dysfunction should be viewed as a chronic disease with medical, psychological and behavioral components that must not be treated in a mechanical and purely medicinal manner."

Since there are many possible causes of sexual dysfunction, it would be simplistic to think of a single herbal product as a panacea. I generally tell patients that if they want to try an OTC product, they should do so in moderation, report any side effects and avoid spending too much money.

Dr. Michael O'Reilly is ThirdAge Women's Health Expert.