From the Guidelines
For erectile dysfunction (ED) associated with cough and congestion, the most effective treatment approach is to use phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5i) as the first-line therapy, as they have been shown to improve symptoms of ED and are well-tolerated 1. When considering treatment for ED, it's essential to address the underlying issues, which may include physiologic and iatrogenic causes, such as damage to blood vessels or the autonomic nervous system, as well as psychologic components 1. Key considerations for treatment include:
- PDE5i treatment, such as on-demand or daily, low-dose therapy, which has been shown to be effective in improving ED symptoms 1
- Testosterone therapy, which may relieve symptoms of ED, problems with ejaculation, or problems with orgasm for survivors with hypogonadism, but should not be used if contraindicated by the primary oncologic diagnosis 1
- Risk factor modification, such as smoking cessation, weight loss, increasing physical activity, and avoiding excess alcohol consumption, which can improve erectile and sexual function 1
- Treatment of psychosocial problems, with referral to sex and couples therapy as appropriate, which can alleviate symptoms of sexual dysfunction 1 It's crucial to note that PDE5i are contraindicated in patients taking oral nitrates, and the timing and dose of on-demand PDE5i should be started conservatively and titrated to the maximum dose as needed 1. Additionally, survivors on PDE5is should be monitored periodically for efficacy, side effects, and any significant change in health status 1.
From the Research
Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Associated with Cough and Congestion
There are no research papers provided that directly address the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) associated with cough and congestion.
Available Treatments for Cough
However, the provided studies discuss various treatments for cough, including:
- Centrally acting opioids such as morphine, codeine, and dextromethorphan 2, 3
- Peripherally acting antitussives like moguisteine and levodropropizine 3
- Centrally acting drugs such as amitriptyline, paroxetine, gabapentin, and carbamezepine 2, 3
- New agents like nociceptin or antagonists of transient receptor potential vanniloid-1 2, 3
- Antihistamines like chlorpheniramine and combinations of codeine or dextromethorphan with antihistamines, decongestants, and expectorants 4
- Bilastine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine syrup 5
Efficacy of Cough Suppressants
The efficacy of these cough suppressants has been tested in various studies, with some showing significant reductions in cough severity 6, 5. However, the efficacy of dextromethorphan in treating cough associated with acute upper respiratory tract infection has been questioned 6.
Treatment of Dry Cough
The treatment of dry cough remains a challenge, and current drugs and combinations like codeine and chlorpheniramine are used for effective management 4. A combination of bilastine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine has been shown to be efficacious, safe, and non-sedating in the treatment of acute dry cough due to a common cold or allergy 5.