18 Mar Erectile Dysfunction: Overview of Peptide Treatments
Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects about 30 million men in the United States. This condition occurs when a man cannot achieve an erection or maintain one long enough. ED can be a temporary issue, or it can be an ongoing, long-term issue.
Peptide therapy is a newer and less common approach to treating erectile dysfunction, but one that could prove more effective than the traditional treatment methods. Read on to learn more about peptide therapy for erectile dysfunction.
What is ED?
ED is a common issue that necessitates immediate attention since it hinders the quality of life and could indicate a more serious underlying condition. The most prevalent medical treatment for erectile dysfunction is prescription medications. However, it is wise to explore all treatment options to ensure an effective long-term treatment that suits your needs.
Some examples of ED include:
- The ability to get an erection on some, but not every, sexual opportunity
- Difficulty sustaining an erection during sex
- Trouble achieving an erection, or inability to get an erection at all
What are Peptides?
Peptides are a minuscule chain of amino acids occurring naturally within the body that are available supplementally for various health benefits. Peptides combine to form protein blocks in the body. The way peptides operate can vary since there are many different types. However, peptides generally work as signaling molecules communicating between tissues to support various bodily functions.
Peptides and Sexual Health
A variety of different issues can cause erectile dysfunction. In some men, ED results from poor blood circulation due to cardiovascular problems. In this case, medications that improve blood flow can be helpful. Other scenarios see ED caused by a low sex drive which can be related to issues in the brain. Peptide therapy can help stimulate the brain and central nervous system to improve sex drive and treat erectile dysfunction.
Peptides Types for ED
Specific peptide therapies prescribed to treat ED include:
- Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP)
- Melanotan II
- PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP)
This study1 found that VIP found success in treating erectile function. VIP has various other benefits, including supporting gut health and immune functionality and reducing inflammation and heart health.
Melanotan II
Melanotan II may be able to provide benefits for sexual health and vitality. This peptide proved capable of working as an initiator of erections in 8 out of 10 men2 who were in the study and had erectile dysfunction. Melanotan II has some safety concerns and is only available as a prescription medication.
PT-141 (Bremelanotide)
One of the more common peptide therapies for ED is PT-141 or Bremelanotide. This peptide therapy may help increase libido in men who struggle with ED. PT-141 acts on the nervous system to help stimulate arousal.3
Mechanism of Action of Peptides for ED
Peptides work as chemical messengers in the body by engaging with various receptors, promoting the release of hormones, and influencing different bodily functions. Peptides can help with ED treatment since they act on the central nervous system and get to any neurological causes of ED.
Peptide Benefits for ED treatment
Peptide therapy is powerful and versatile, working for many issues and conditions. Some benefits that peptides can offer patients with ED include improved sexual function, fewer side effects than traditional ED drugs, and long-lasting effects.
Improved Sexual Function
Several studies have examined the effects of peptides on sexual function and found promising results. Peptides may improve sexual function in both men and women who struggle with low libido.
Fewer Side Effects than Traditional ED Drugs
Traditional ED drugs like Viagra can cause harmful side effects such as sickness, hot flashes, indigestion, and a prolonged erection. Peptide therapy rarely has side effects when administered properly by a trained professional.
Long-lasting Effects
Peptide therapy addresses the source of the issue instead of merely trying to cover it up. Typical ED medications cause an increase in blood flow, which can be helpful but does not always provide a long-term solution. Peptide therapy acts directly on the nervous system to create an authentic increase in libido.
Peptide Side Effects for ED Treatment
Some potential side effects of peptide therapy for ED include:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Flushing
- Feeling hot
Summary
Erectile dysfunction is a common disorder affecting sexual health and quality of life. There are standard treatments for ED that have been around for a long time, but these medications don’t always provide a long-term solution. Peptide therapy may be a promising approach to treating ED. Talk with your doctor about whether this is a good option for you.