A known link has been established between erectile dysfunction (ED) and cardiovascular risk factors such as obesity.
A link has also been suggested between these factors and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).
This study from researchers in Chicago and New York analyzed a multi-center, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of men explores the connection between body mass index (BMI) and response to sildenafil in patients with ED and LUTS.
Men with scores less than or equal to 25 on the Erectile Function domain of the International Index of Erectile Funcation and an International Prostate Symptom Score greater or equal to 12 were given 50 mg of sildenafil (or matching placebo) nightly or one hour before sexual activity. After two weeks, dose was increased to 100 mg with the option of returning to the original dose. Patients were evaluated for erectile function, IPSS and flow rate (Qmax) and assessed by BMI category. Sildenafil improved erectile function scores independent of baseline BMI and IPSS scores were decreased in men taking sildenafil yet similar between BMI groups. Flow rate was not affected by the drug. Higher BMI appeared to have an association with more severe ED.