More men with prostate cancer could benefit from erection pills, new research shows

Many cancer treatments, such as radiotherapy, hormone therapy and prostatectomy, can cause difficulty getting and maintaining erections – and more than 80 per cent of men who have, or have had, prostate cancer experience erection problems.

Medications like Viagra and Cialis (known as PDE5 inhibitors or PDE5is) can help, but new research we've led shows they're not being prescribed as often as they could.

The research, published in the World Journal of Men’s Health, also highlights how these medicines may improve a range of additional problems, like heart conditions, stroke, diabetes, enlarged prostate and difficulty weeing. These are problems that affect many of the more than half a million men who are living with or after prostate cancer in the UK.

Erection pills work by blocking an enzyme that reduces blood flow. This allows more blood to reach key parts of the body and relaxes the muscles.

For men with problems getting erections, this helps to increase the flow of blood to the penis. But increased blood flow and muscle relaxation can also benefit the heart, brain, lungs and other organs.

Men are missing out unnecessarily

PDE5i treatment was previously restricted on the NHS due to its high cost. But UK patents on the drugs have expired, making them cheaper and more accessible. It's now possible for men to talk to their GP about getting this medication prescribed on the NHS.

That's why we're calling for healthcare professionals to consider prescribing PDE5i medication to more men who are having prostate cancer treatment, as early as possible.

"Treatments for prostate cancer can negatively impact a man's sexual wellbeing," explains Sophie Smith, one of our Senior Specialist Nurse. "Every man should be routinely offered medication to help with erection problems at the start of his prostate cancer journey.

"Sadly, too many men are missing out on simple treatments that could set them on the right track to getting their sex life back – and, the evidence shows, could improve many other serious, life-limiting conditions they may face.

"Lots of men tell us that they find it difficult to bring up the subject of sex at their appointments, often because they're embarrassed, or they don’t want to waste the doctor’s time.

"I encourage healthcare professionals to talk proactively and regularly with patients about their sexual wellbeing, and treatments that can help. I’d also like to reassure every man living with or after prostate cancer that your sex life is important, and that you can talk to your GP about erection problems."

PDE5 inhibitors are not suitable for everyone (for example, men taking nitrates). For men who cannot take erection pills or find that they don't help, there are other treatment options available.

'Surgery left me with significant problems getting an erection'

Steve Allen, 77, had his prostate removed after his cancer diagnosis in 2008.

"I was fortunate to find my prostate cancer early enough to be able to have surgery that cured me," he says. "But the same treatment that saved my life also damaged a key part of it.

"Surgery left me with significant problems in getting an erection, something which takes a huge toll on your relationship, your identity, and your mental health. It's not what you want when you're only 60 years old."

But, Steve says, the early use of PDE5is was hugely beneficial.

"It enables me to enjoy a fulfilling sexual relationship," he adds. "Life isn’t perfect, but it's so much better than I thought it would ever be.

"I find this new research from Prostate Cancer UK very valuable, and it confirms the thoughts that many of us have had for some time. I support their call for medical professionals to proactively discuss and prescribe erection pills as early first-line treatment to men treated for prostate cancer.

"They may not help every patient, but there are a huge number of men out there who could benefit and currently do not."

If you'd like to learn more about how prostate cancer can affect your sex life, take a look at our free, expert information. Alternatively, you can talk to our Specialist Nurses by calling 0800 074 8383 to discuss our Sexual Support service.