STUDY OF THE EFFECTS OF BROMOCRIPTINE ON SEXUAL IMPOTENCE

Abstract

Serum testosterone, prolactin, LH [luteinizing hormone], FSH [follicle stimulating hormone] and plasma 17.beta.-estradiol levels were determined in 47 male patients with sexual impotence. Low testosterone values and slightly elevated prolactin levels were observed in 19% and 17% of cases, respectively. Since sexual function in the male seems to be controlled by both dopaminergic stimulatory and serotoninergic inhibitory mechanisms, bromocriptine [dopaminergic agonist] was given orally to 17 patients. As the preliminary results appeared encouraging, a double blind study was undertaken in the other 30 patients. No appreciable difference in hormonal pattern was noticed between bromocriptine and placebo treatment. As far as sexual function was concerned, good results were obtained in 52% of cases treated with bromocriptine and in 44% of patients given placebo.