In this blog we have discussed new treatment option, i.e L-arginine for ED
What is Erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction, or ED is the type of sexual dysfunction in which the penis fails to become or stay erect during sexual activity. It is the most common sexual problem in men and it affects as many as 30 million men.
What is the best treatment for erectile dysfunction?
Perhaps, it’s a never ending discussion even-though there are lots of medicines already available in the market. The ultimate outcome can vary person to person; however, the results are not always satisfactory and there is no permanent solution.
A recent study published on NIH brings a ray of hope towards a permanent outcome. Although, there is no better alternate like regular exercise, a good sleep, healthy diet and controlling other health problems like diabetes, hypertension and stress.
The current study used high dose of L-arginine supplement for 3 months. L-arginine is an amino acid naturally found in red meat, poultry, fish, and dairy. It is necessary for making proteins and is commonly used for circulation.
L-arginine is converted in the body into a chemical called nitric oxide. Nitric oxide causes blood vessels to open wider for improved blood flow. That is why it is only helpful for Vasculogenic erectile dysfunction.
Study result of L-arginine for ED
The study was conducted on a small group of people. Half of them took 6gm L-arginine for 3 months and other half of them were in a placebo group.
A placebo is an inactive substance that looks like the drug or treatment being tested. That means half of the men haven’t taken the actual medicine.
In this 3 months time period they did not take any other medication which can help to increase erection.
After the 3 months the outcome was measured by an internationally validated questionnaire which is called IIEF-6 or International index of Erectile Dysfunction-6. They also have done a penile duplex ultrasonography to check the penile blood flow.
74% men who took the L-arginine supplement reported significant improvement in erection and also had improved sexual satisfaction.
Among them 24% of the patients have no erection problem at all after taking the supplement for 3 months.
Is L-arginine safe?
L-arginine for ED is possibly safe for most people when used short-term. The most recent research suggests that L-arginine may lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol and improve overall blood vessel health. So it is beneficial for the people who have high blood pressure problem.
However, High dose of L-arginine for long time can significantly reduce the blood pressure.
It can also cause heart burn, scrotal etching, stomach pain, and diarrhoea. So regular monitoring is necessary while taking this medicine.
It’s important to know that L-arginine supplements can interact with some medications, including:
- Blood thinners, including aspirin and warfarin
- Certain diuretics
- Nitroglycerin
- Some high blood pressure medications
- Erectile dysfunction drugs
- Diabetes medications
When to avoid L-arginine?
L-arginine should be avoided in:
- Asthma,
- Liver cirrhosis,
- Kidney disease,
- Low blood pressure, and
- Guanidinoacetate methyltransferase deficiency.
Takeaway:
ED is a common problem and 95% of ED is treatable. Although this L-arginine for ED study was conducted on a very small group of people, it is a ray of new hope in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. More research is warranted to conclude the final verdict.
Also, there are other treatment options available for erectile dysfunction. Talk to your doctor as finding a satisfying solution to ED can be a life changing event for many men and their partners.
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