Evaluation of a multi-herb supplement for erectile dysfunction: a randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study

Abstract

BackgroundEvidence is lacking for multi-ingredient herbal supplements claiming therapeutic effect in sexual dysfunction in men. We examined the safety and efficacy of VigRX Plus (VXP) – a proprietary polyherbal preparation for improving male sexual function, in a double blind, randomized placebo-controlled, parallel groups, multi-centre study.Methods78 men aged 25–50 years of age; suffering from mild to moderate erectile dysfunction (ED), participated in this study. Subjects were randomized to receive VXP or placebo at a dose of two capsules twice daily for 12 weeks. The international index of erectile function (IIEF) was the primary outcome measure of efficacy. Other efficacy measures were: Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction (EDITS), Serum testosterone, Semen analysis, Investigator’s Global assessment and Subjects’ opinion.ResultsIn subjects receiving VXP, the IIEF-Erectile Function (EF) scores improved significantly as compared to placebo. After 12 weeks of treatment, the mean (sd) IIEF-EF score at baseline increased from 16.08 (2.87) to 25.08 (4.56) in the VXP group versus 15.86 (3.24) to 16.47 (4.25) in the placebo group (P < 0.0001). Similar results were observed in each of the remaining four domains of the IIEF (orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction).There was a significant difference for VXP versus placebo comparison of mean (sd) EDITS scores of patients: 82.31(20.23) vs 36.78(22.53) and partners :(82.75(9.8) vs 18.50(9.44);P < 0.001. Thirty-five out of 39 (90%) subjects from the VXP group and one (3%) from the placebo group wished to continue with the treatment they received. Investigator’s global assessment rated VXP therapy as very good to excellent in more than 50% patients and placebo therapy as fair to good in about 25% of patients. Incidence of side effects and subject’s rating for tolerability of treatment was similar in both groups.ConclusionsVigRX Plus was well tolerated and more effective than placebo in improving sexual function in men.Trial RegistrationClinical Trial Registry India, CTRI/2009/091/000099, 31-03-2009

Effects of Physical Activity and Ginkgo Biloba on Cognitive Function and Oxidative Stress Modulation in Ischemic Rats

“…In this regard, some studies have reported its beneficial effects 7,8 and free radical scavenging by ginkgo has been suggested as a possible mechanism. 31,41 However, others have found no such effect. [9][10][11][12] Our findings do not confirm the studies reporting the effectiveness of Ginkgo biloba in treating memory impairments due to its antioxidant properties, 42,43 but are in agreement with those reports showing that the retention deficit caused by ischemia was not statistically reduced by ginkgo extract.…”

Inhibitory effect of ethyl acetate fraction ofSolanum macrocarponL. leaves on cholinergic, monoaminergic, and purinergic enzyme activities

“…Moreover, Shah et al () documented that erectile dysfunction or impotence which can be defined as the insistent failure to attain and maintain an erection sufficient for sexual satisfactory. It is classified as one of the oldest diseases well known to mankind, it affects more than 52% of 40‐ to 70‐year‐old men globally, with a projection of over 320 million by the year 2025 (Shah et al, ). Clinically, in the treatment of erectile dysfunction, drugs such as Staxyn, Viagra, and Levitra are used.…”

Action Mechanism ofGinkgo bilobaLeaf Extract Intervened by Exercise Therapy in Treatment of Benign Prostate Hyperplasia

“…Many pharmacological and clinical studies have shown that the extract of Gingko causes two main actions: increase of blood flow in central and peripheral vessels and inhibition of platelet aggregation and free radical scavenging. Thus Gingko may be effective in cases of erectile dysfunction due to a decreased blood flow [26]. …”