An early stage study has revealed that nitric oxide may be efficacious in helping men surmount impotence.
The nitric oxide is filled in tiny beads which are inserted into the penis. Less than 1mm wide in size, these tiny particles then slowly release nitric oxide in the reproductive organ of the males.
The release of this gas widens blood vessels and thus enhances the blood supply to the special chambers along the length of the penis which result in erection.
At present, the most widely used drug for the treatment of erectile dysfunction is sildenafil, sold as Viagra. The nitric oxide treatment is reportedly more effective than Viagra.
For the purpose of the study, researchers at Rice University injected the small nitric oxide beads into the corpus cavernosa region of the rats. This part of the penis is when filled with blood triggers an erection.
Diabetics more susceptible
Typically, men who have ED fail to keep a prolonged erection which hinders in love making. People with other medical conditions like high blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes are more susceptible to contracting ED. Men with such underlying medical conditions tend to produce too little of nitric oxide which hinders penis’ erection.
According to estimates, three-fourth of the diabetic men will experience ED in their lifetime. A disheartening revelation is that these men will experience impotence 10 to 15 years earlier than their counterparts who do not suffer from diabetes.
Study researchers now intend to conduct clinical trials of nitric oxide beads in men. If successful, the beads could be available in the market as early as 5 years.
“The beneficial effects of the nitric oxide may be seen not only in erections but in protective and beneficial cardiovascular effects. I look forward to this treatment being licensed for use in the UK as it seems both safe and effective on the data presented,” said Professor Raj Persad, from Bristol Urological Institute.
Findings of the study find mention in the Journal of Sexual Medicine.
