Hormonal therapy for erection problems
Examples
Depo-Testosterone/Virilon IM (testosterone cypionate), Andryl/Arderone (testosterone enanthate), Androderm/AndroGel/Testoderm transdermal (testosterone), Parlodel (bromocriptine mesylate), Dostinex (cabergoline).
These medications can be used to treat men who have high prolactin levels, which can reduce the amount of testosterone produced by the body and may lead to problems such as infertility or erection problems. Bromocriptine and cabergoline are taken by mouth.
How It Works
Replacing testosterone, if it is low, may increase a man’s sexual desire, or libido.
Bromocriptine and cabergoline help to lower the amount of prolactin in the body. In some men, a noncancerous tumor on the pituitary gland causes the gland to produce too much prolactin.
Why It Is Used
Testosterone may be prescribed for men who have low testosterone levels. It is not recommended for men with testosterone levels in the low part of the normal range.
Bromocriptine and cabergoline may be prescribed for men with high prolactin levels.
Blood tests are needed to determine the levels of these hormones.
How Well It Works
Testosterone may improve libido and, as a result, may improve erection problems (erectile dysfunction) in men who have low testosterone levels.
Bromocriptine and cabergoline may help restore sexual interest and potency when erection problems are caused by high prolactin levels. At least 4 weeks of continuous therapy is needed to lower the prolactin level to the normal range.
Side Effects
Side effects of testosterone may include:
- An elevated number of red blood cells (polycythemia), which can increase the risk of stroke or heart attack.
- Painful enlargement of the breasts.
- Water retention.
- High blood pressure.
- An elevated blood cholesterol level.
- Abnormal liver function tests.
- Increased risk of heart failure.
- Increased prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels.
- Increased growth of preexisting prostate cancer.
Side effects of bromocriptine may include:
- Confusion, hallucinations, and uncontrolled body movements, particularly in older men.
- Worsening of liver disorders.
- Worsening of certain mental disorders.
- High blood pressure.
- Infertility.
Side effects of cabergoline may include:
- Low blood pressure.
- Headache, dizziness, and vertigo.
- Depression, nervousness, and anxiety.
- Abdominal pain, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, and flatulence.
- Dry mouth.
- Anorexia and weight fluctuation.
Side effects may cause some men to stop taking the medication. Nervous system and mental side effects may linger for 2 to 6 weeks after a man stops taking the medication.
What To Think About
When considering hormonal therapy for erection problems, it is important to include your partner in your decision.
During the first year of testosterone therapy, you should receive a prostate examination, a PSA blood test, a complete blood count, and a liver function test every 3 to 6 months.
Although replacement of testosterone through injections or patches can improve a man’s libido, it does not always improve a man’s ability to have an erection.
Cabergoline given weekly is as effective as daily doses of bromocriptine and may be associated with fewer side effects. Prolactin levels should be monitored monthly.
Mark P:
Actually for all of those who think Male performance Products are just for older guys, please read. Unfortuneately there are prescription drugs out there that say “may cause sexual side effects.”
I took one of these prescrption drugs and now that has ruined my ability to do the deed without assistance. It sucks that this happens, but not being able to get it up is not the fault of the person nor does it make them less of a man. Many times its because of physiological problems or medical reasons. This drug allows those individuals to carry on a somewhat normal sexual life.
My point is people: Go the more natural alternative way like Stamazide. I sure wish I found it sooner that the prescription crap I took.
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12 of 17 people found the following review helpful:
I really like Stamazide, January 9, 2006
By Gilbert “Gilbert” (Westport, CT) – See all my reviews
This product works for me. I highly recommend it. Thank you
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4 of 6 people found the following review helpful:
30 October 2009, 6:12 amStamazide 5 stars, July 6, 2006
By Douglas “Mets Fan” (Queens, NY) – See all my reviews
This product worked great for me. Not like I needed alot of help in the endurance department however I was looking for something to keep my stamina during intercourse and this stamazide was recommended to me from my buddy and we are both now big fans.
shane:
ive been taking testosterone enanthate injections for about 1 month for low testosterone/lack of sex drive.My sex drive now is less than it was before i started, is this normal? will i have increased libido after another few weeks?
thank you
2 January 2010, 3:11 pm