The Medications That Are Awaiting FDA Approval

The first of a slate of oral medications for the treatment of impotence is expected to receive approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration this year. The medications will ease the treatment of the disorder, which affects 18 million American men.

Drug: sildenafil

Brand Name: Viagra

Manufacturer: Pfizer

Effectiveness: 80% for psychological impotence; 60%-70% for physical causes

Side Effects: mild headaches, facial flushing, muscle aches, indigestion

When on Market: FDA approval expected within months

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Drug: oral phentolamine

Brand Name: Vasomax

Manufacturer: Zonagen

Effectiveness: 40%-50% for psychological or physical causes

Side Effects: stuffy nose, lightheadedness, low blood pressure

When on Market: Late this year or next year

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Drug: sublingual apomorphine

Brand Name: Spontane

Manufacturer: TAP Holdings

Effectiveness: About 60%-70% in psychological causes

Side Effects: nausea, yawning, fatigue, lightheadedness

When on Market: One to two years

Source: Dr. Harin Padma-Nathan, the Male Clinic, Santa Monica