A nasal spray can treat erectile dysfunction up to 10 times faster than Viagra, scientists say.
Viagra was revolutionary when it hit store shelves in the 1990s, but with a problem: it takes up to an hour to take effect.
Now experts say they are developing a spray version that can help induce an erection in just five minutes.
The treatment, called SPONTAN, has shown promise in early studies and could be available in the US within the next two years.
Lee Rodne, head of the Australian company LTR Pharma, which is developing the spray, suggested it could be the biggest advance in helping men maintain an erection since the rise of Viagra.
Experts say they are developing a Viagra spray that could be available in the US in as little as two years. It works within five to 15 minutes
The treatment, called Spontaneous, has shown promise in early proof-of-concept studies (Image). It is being tested in a larger study in California
About 30 million men in America suffer from erectile dysfunction, or the inability to get or maintain an erection during sexual activity.
When a man gets an erection, the smooth muscles around the penis relax, allowing blood to flow to the region.
In people with erectile dysfunction, this system can be disrupted by heart disease or emotional problems such as stress and anxiety that restrict blood flow to the penis.
Viagra works by relaxing the muscles around the penis, allowing more blood to flow into it. The drug also facilitates blood flow.
Men who use Viagra are 25% less likely to die prematurely
Viagra reduces the risk of heart disease in men by up to 39 percent, according to a new study. And men who take the drug also seem less likely to die from any cause.
When aroused, the increase in blood flow causes a man to have a stronger erection.
The drug must be taken orally and takes 30 minutes to an hour to work as it is absorbed through the digestive system.
But doctors at Brisbane-based biologics company LTR Pharma are now working on a spray version called SPONTAN.
This version will use the drug Vardenafil, sold under the brand name Levitra. It differs from Viagra, which uses the drug Sildenafil.
The treatment works faster than traditional Viagra because it is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the nose.
Early proof-of-concept studies in California showed the treatment worked within five to 15 minutes.
It is now moving to larger trials in Australia, which will begin recruiting men in the second half of this year.
These studies are expected to begin reporting results in the first half of next year.
If successful, the company will seek approval of its drug from the Food and Drug Administration. It is expected in 2025.
Lee Rodne, Executive Chairman of LTR Pharma, said: “Our nasal delivery bypasses the digestive system, so it really goes straight into the bloodstream and takes effect within five to 15 minutes.
“We believe it’s much more effective than oral pills, so it works consistently and progressively faster, so men don’t have to plan ahead and don’t have mixed results.”
He added: “We are very confident [in the drug].
“This product has already had a small proof-of-concept clinical trial in California that showed a fast-acting, rapid effect.”
The Royal Australian College of GPs reports that erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common clinical problem treated in general medicine. This can contribute to breakups and mental health issues.
The condition is estimated to affect about 40 percent of men, with the incidence increasing with age.
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Crystal Leahy is an author and health journalist who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a background in health and wellness, Crystal has a passion for helping people live their best lives through healthy habits and lifestyles.
