NSAIDs is so often used in family practice. Other than its effects on GI, and kidney  role of NSAID in causing erectile dysfunction has been shown. Read on to know how?

Team@CMHF

Regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is associated with erectile dysfunction (ED), according to the results of a prospective cohort study reported online February 21 and in the April print issue of the Journal of Urology.

“This study is a great example of how we work to understand the safety and effectiveness of what we recommend for our patients,”

There are many proven benefits of non steroidals in preventing heart disease and for other conditions,” Dr. Jacobsen said. “People shouldn’t stop taking them based on this observational study. However, if a man is taking this class of drugs and has ED, it’s worth a discussion with his doctor.”

While this raises the question of the role of inflammation and COX [cyclo-oxygenase] pathways in ED etiology, we cannot exclude alternative explanations. However, if this is a direct relationship, the current strategy of using NSAIDs for cardiovascular disease protection as well as other common uses of NSAIDs should be weighed against the potential side effects of ED. Studies are needed to elucidate this association in more detail

NSAIDs may improve erectile function in men through positive effects on endothelial function. However, a study by Shiri and colleagues suggests the opposite. They found that use of NSAIDs led to an approximate 2-fold increase in the risk for ED. This was true after adjustment for multiple demographic and medical factors and was valid regardless of the presence of arthritis. However, men with arthritis who did not use NSAIDs did not have a significant increase in the risk for ED.

The current study suggests that NSAIDs can independently increase the risk for ED, particularly among older men.

Read More: http://www.medscape.org/viewarticle/738584?src=cmemp