Hypertensive men treated with beta-blockers
frequently complain of erectile dysfunction. The present study investigated the
effects of two b1-adrenoceptor-selective antagonists, namely nebivolol and
metoprolol, on erectile function in hypertensive men.
Metoprolol, but not nebivolol,
significantly decreased the IIEF erectile function subscore by 0.92 in the
first 8 weeks after onset of beta-blocker treatment. In contrast with
metoprolol, nebivolol improved secondary sexual activity scores and other IIEF
subscores.
Nebivolol may improve erectile function by increasing perfusion in small and microvessels. Similar effects have been described for sildenafil, a phosphodiesterarse 5 inhibitor.
Nebivolol may offer additional benefits by
avoiding erectile dysfunction in male hypertensive patients on long-term b- adrenoceptor
antagonist therapy.
Reference:
Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology (2007) 34, 327–331
In Pakistan, it is marketed by Searle Pakistan Limited as Byscard.
