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Modern treatment approaches for erectile dysfunction – review
1
Students’ Scientific Club, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze,
Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
2
Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
Corresponding author
Michał Stojko
Studenckie Koło Naukowe, Katedra Psychiatrii, Wydział Nauk Medycznych w Zabrzu, ul. Pyskowicka 3, 42-600 Tarnowskie Góry
Studenckie Koło Naukowe, Katedra Psychiatrii, Wydział Nauk Medycznych w Zabrzu, ul. Pyskowicka 3, 42-600 Tarnowskie Góry
Ann. Acad. Med. Siles. 2025;79:159-167
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a significant public health issue that affects both patients’ quality of life and their intimate relationships. While phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5-Is) are the standard first-line treatment, a substantial proportion of patients fail to achieve satisfactory results. Growing interest in alternative treatment approaches has led to the exploration of novel therapies, including botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT). BoNT increases penile tissue blood supply by relaxing corpora cavernosa smooth muscle by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine. In this review, BoNT as a new agent in the treatment of ED and comparison with the safety and efficacy of advanced techniques like endovascular therapy, stem cell therapy, platelet-rich plasma therapy, and low-intensity shockwave therapy is discussed. The mechanisms of action, clinical trial results, and possible limitations of these approaches are discussed. According to recent research, BoNT is a potential alternative for ED patients who are not responsive to traditional treatments. Additional studies, however, are required to establish optimal dosing regimens and determine the long-term benefits of these new therapeutic approaches.
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