Diagnosis and therapy of erectile dysfunction using papaverine and phentolamine.

The introduction in 1982 of vasoactive agents for intracavernous injection represents a milestone in the diagnosis and treatment of erectile dysfunction. Two preparations, the single drug papaverine hydrochloride and the combination of phentolamine mesylate and papaverine hydrochloride, hold great promise. In the last few years, the use of vasoactive drugs for evaluation and treatment of erectile dysfunction has become accepted worldwide. This paper explores the diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities and hazards implied in the method, assessing the advantages and drawbacks of papaverine and the combination product.