Sildenafil Compliance after Restoration of Erectile Function

Son, Hwan cheol; Shin, Jae wook; Lim, Dae Jung; Park, Kwan jin; Kim, Soo Woong; Paick, Jae Seung

Abstract

PURPOSE
Regarding for erectile dysfunction(ED), Sildenafil has produced satisfactory clinical results. However, Some patient discontinue sildenafil treatment for a variety of reasons after successful restoration of erectile function. We investigated the reasons for such discontinuations of sildenafil after restoration of erectile function by sildenafil medication.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
After sildenafil medication, one hundred fifty six patients whose score of erectile function domain of the 15-item International Index of Erectile Function(IIEF) increased to 26 or more, were included in this study. Six-months after the first sildenafil prescription, compliance to medication and the reason for discontinuity were reviewed by chart or surveyed by telephone.
RESULTS
In 156 successfully treated patients, 54(34.6%) discontinued sildenafil medication. The 2 most common reasons for discontinuation were trouble in the partners' or patients' emotional readiness for restoration of sexual activity after long-term abstinence and fear of possible side effects.
CONCLUSIONS
After restoration of erectile function, many patients discontinued the use of sildenafil medication. The reasons for discontinuing the medication were primarily emotional or relationship-oriented issues. The counseling of both partners and education about the effects and side effects of the drugs are recommended to promote the successful recovery of sexual activity.