A NEW TOOL TO COMBAT IMPOTENCE

Impotence, a man's inability to achieve and sustain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse, is a frequent complication of long-term diabetes. Several times in the past few years, we have carried articles reviewing its causes, symptoms, and treatments. We do this because, although a difficult subject for many, diabetogenic impotence is not mysterious, or even difficult to treat. These new treatments deserve to see the light of day.

For some time, one treatment for diabetogenic male impotence (there are many) has been injection of the prescription drug Alprostadil (Pharmacia/Upjohn's Caverject) into the penis, to stimulate an erection. It works, but many men are deterred from injecting into such a tender area. Is there a less invasive way to get Alprostadil where it's needed?

Enter the MUSE system. In principle, the MUSE system (made by VIVUS, Inc., of Lakewood, NJ) is a slender "eyedropper," meant to be inserted into the urethra, where it delivers the prescribed dose of Alprostadil, without needle or pain.

Both the drug and the delivery system have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for this use. For many impotent men, the MUSE may be the therapy of choice. There are many therapies for male erectile dysfunction, and all of them have good rates of success. If you are having sexual difficulties, diabetogenic or otherwise, talk to your doctor. You have a lot of choices, and the saddest thing would be to keep quiet.

For information about the MUSE system, contact your pharmacist or VIVUS, Inc., Right Start Program, c/o WRB, 4200 Lafayette Center Drive, Suite J., Chantilly, VA 20151; telephone: 1-888-367-6873.