Sildenafil in treating erectile dysfunction

The article initially describes the history of the discovery of the first PDE5 inhibitor designed to treat erectile dysfunction. It explains the mechanism

of erection and the conditions for its proper functioning. It elucidates the mechanism of action of PDE5 inhibitors in treating erectile

dysfunction, summarizes the experience with sildenafil during its 15 years of existence, its indications as well as contraindications, and highlights

some mistakes physicians make in the management. Erectile dysfunction often serves as an initial sign of a somatic, particularly cardiovascular,

disease; therefore, it is important that this sensitive issue be communicated about with patients and searched for by general practitioners.

The article also outlines the model of an optimal combined approach using psychotherapy with pharmacotherapy. Such therapeutic strategy

further potentiates the effect of sildenafil alone. Some previously published facts are presented and updated with new knowledge

for everyday diagnostic-therapeutic use.

counter-indications, psychotherapy, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, psychological disorders.

Keywords: erectile dysfunction, PDE5 inhibitors, sildenafil citrate, discovery, mechanism of action, experience, treatment errors, indication,