Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction affects an estimated 85 million men worldwide, and about 30 percent of them do not benefit from drug therapies. Defined by the persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection suitable for intercourse, ED often leads to considerable emotional distress and strain on relationships.

While ED can occur at any age, its prevalence increases over time. Key contributing factors include cardiovascular conditions and diabetes—both of which impair the small blood vessels critical for an erection—as well as hormonal imbalances.

Men undergoing radical prostatectomy face an especially high risk: of the approximately 490,000 prostate cancer surgeries performed annually in the Western world, most patients continue to experience severe ED one year later.

Because ED affects not only physical function but also emotional well-being and interpersonal connections, effective treatment must address both the biological and psychological dimensions of the condition.

Currently no curative treatment is available for erectile dysfunction.

To meet this need, we are developing Blue Cell therapy.

Current treatments available

Oral Medications

Drugs such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Stendra) are prescribed for erectile dysfunction. They work by enhancing blood flow to the penis. They should be used under medical supervision, considering the individual’s health and other medications. Hormone replacement therapy can aid men with low testosterone levels to improve erectile function.

Penile Injections

Alprostadil, a medication, can be injected directly into the penis to stimulate an erection before intercourse. This method is effective for many men, but it may be intimidating for some.

Vacuum Erection Devices

Vacuum erection devices (VEDs) create a vacuum around the penis, drawing blood into the erectile tissues to produce an erection. A constriction ring is then applied at the base of the penis to maintain the erection.

Penile Implant

For men who do not respond to other treatments, a penile implant may be considered. There are inflatable and malleable (semi-rigid) implants that can be surgically implanted to allow for erections when desired.

Lifestyle Change

Quitting smoking: Smoking can restrict blood flow, which can contribute to erectile dysfunction.

Reducing alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can impair sexual function.

Regular exercise: Physical activity can improve blood flow and overall health, which may help with erectile dysfunction.

Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet can contribute to better overall health and vascular function.

Alternative Therapies

Some men explore alternative or complementary treatments, such as shockwave therapy, acupuncture, herbal remedies, or supplements. However, the efficacy and safety of these treatments vary, and they should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Consulting a healthcare professional is essential to pinpoint the root cause of ED and review the best treatment strategies. Therapy is then customized to the patient—considering their health profile, treatment preferences, and any contraindications.

Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is thought to affect around 85 million men around the world – and 30% of them do not respond to drug therapy. Erectile dysfunction is characterised by the consistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. Unsurprisingly, ED can cause significant distress and relationship problems.

Erectile dysfunction affects men of all ages but is more common with increasing age. Various factors contribute to the development of erectile dysfunction. It is more common in men with heart disease or diabetes, which can both result in narrowing of the intricate blood vessels essential to an erection. Hormonal imbalances also increase the risk of ED.

Men who have had a prostatectomy tend to be badly affected by ED. Studies show a majority of the 490,000 men in the western world who undergo major prostate cancer surgery each year, still suffer severe ED a year after their operation.

Erectile dysfunction impacts both physical health, emotional well-being and relationships, highlighting the importance of addressing both the physical and psychological aspects when treating erectile dysfunction.

Currently no curative treatment is available for erectile dysfunction.

To meet this need, we are developing Blue Cell therapy.

Current treatments available

Oral Medications

Drugs such as sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Stendra) are prescribed for erectile dysfunction. They work by enhancing blood flow to the penis. They should be used under medical supervision, considering the individual’s health and other medications. Hormone replacement therapy can aid men with low testosterone levels to improve erectile function.

Penile Injections

Alprostadil, a medication, can be injected directly into the penis to stimulate an erection before intercourse. This method is effective for many men, but it may be intimidating for some.

Vacuum Erection Devices

Vacuum erection devices (VEDs) create a vacuum around the penis, drawing blood into the erectile tissues to produce an erection. A constriction ring is then applied at the base of the penis to maintain the erection.

Penile Implant

For men who do not respond to other treatments, a penile implant may be considered. There are inflatable and malleable (semi-rigid) implants that can be surgically implanted to allow for erections when desired.

Lifestyle Change

Quitting smoking: Smoking can restrict blood flow, which can contribute to erectile dysfunction.

Reducing alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol can impair sexual function.

Regular exercise: Physical activity can improve blood flow and overall health, which may help with erectile dysfunction.

Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet can contribute to better overall health and vascular function.

Alternative Therapies

Some men explore alternative or complementary treatments, such as shockwave therapy, acupuncture, herbal remedies, or supplements. However, the efficacy and safety of these treatments vary, and they should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of erectile dysfunction and discuss the most appropriate treatment options.

The appropriate treatment for erectile dysfunction will be tailored to the specific situation, taking into account health, preferences, and any contra indications to individual treatments.