Erectile Dysfunction Linked to Long-Term Opiate Use

Long-term opiate use for back pain is associated with an increased risk of erectile dysfunction (ED), according to study findings published in Spine (2013;38:909-915).

Richard A. Deyo, MD, MPH, of the Kaiser Center for Health Research in Portland, Ore., and colleagues examined electronic pharmacy and medical records for 11,327 males with back pain seen in a large group model health maintenance organization during 2004. Consideration was given to relevant prescriptions six months before and after the index visit.

The 909 men who used ED drugs or testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) were significantly older than those who did not and had greater comorbidity, depression, smoking, and use of sedative-hypnotics. Long-term use of opioids was associated a 45% increased likelihood of using ED drugs or TRT compared with no opioid use.

From the July 01, 2013 Issue of Renal and Urology News