Evaluating Preference Trials of Oral Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors for Erectile Dysfunction

摘要: Abstract More treatment options are available now for the of erectile dysfunction (ED) than ever. Treatments include oral phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, intracavernosal injections, vacuum constriction devices, and penile implants. Clinicians, researchers, patients interested in making direct comparisons between response newer treatments that established more developed therapies. Of currently ED, most commonly prescribed therapies PDE5 which sildenafil citrate (Viagra ® , Pfizer Inc), tadalafil (Cialis Lilly ICOS), vardenafil (Levitra Bayer). However, patient preference studies these drugs conducted to date have serious design flaws hinder interpretation data, thus limit utility results. To make an informed decision on appropriate option available, physicians their require a thorough understanding methodology studies. Clinical comparison or trials must establish internal external validity if data be used generalized population. We review compared sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil, highlight study designs can introduce bias. propose that, like safety efficacy trials, randomized controlled (RCTs) should gold standard evaluating ED. do not wish discourage individual investigators from performing studies, but rather features current help clinicians alike become aware potential biases independent industry-sponsored so they interpret results accordingly. Key components RCTs reviewed: period carryover effects, assessments, eligibility criteria, analysis. discuss why patient-preference important relevance The discussed this brief summarized Table 1, methodological problems with each indicated. provide recommendation such minimize bias better patients.