In a nutshell
This study examined the long-term effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), combined with medication for erectile dysfunction (ED). This study concluded CBT combined with medication is an effective long-term treatment for ED.
Some background
ED is when men cannot get or keep an erection firm enough to have intercourse. ED can occur for a number of reasons. These can be from a physical or a psychological cause. ED is treated by lifestyle changes, medications or surgery. Medications used for ED include phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5i). These include sildenafil (Viagra) or tadalafil (Cialis). Psychosexual counseling is a form of counseling aimed at treating relationship and sexual issues. CBT is a type of therapy that tries to give the patient tools to manage their erectile dysfunction.
It is not known if CBT combined with a PDE5i is effective in the long-term treatment of erectile dysfunction.
Methods & findings
20 men were included in this study. They were followed up between 15 and 18 months after initial treatment for ED. All patients received a PDE5i. 10 of these men were also treated with CBT. Their sexual function and mental health were assessed.
Men who received CBT and medication combined continued to show improvement in erectile function. They also reported having an improved sex life. The men who received only medication showed either no further improvement in ED or their sex life had not improved. The results were not related to changes in relationship satisfaction or mental health.
The bottom line
This study concluded CBT combined with medication is an effective long-term treatment for ED.
The fine print
This was a small study. It included only Pakistani males. The results may not apply to other populations. Further studies are needed.
Published By :
The journal of sexual medicine
Date :
Feb 01, 2019
