638
P A R T 7
Drugs acting on the reproductive system
■■
Anabolic steroids have been abused to enhance
muscle development and athletic performance, often
with deadly effects.
■■
Anabolic steroids are used to increase haematocrit
and improve protein anabolism in certain depleted
states.
■■
Penile erectile dysfunction can inhibit erection and
male sexual function.
■■
Alprostadil, a prostaglandin, can be injected into the
penis to stimulate erection.
■■
The PDE5 inhibitors are oral agents that act quickly
to promote vascular filling of the corpus cavernosum
and promote penile erection. They differ in duration
and time of onset. They are effective only in the
presence of sexual stimulation.
■■
Dangerous cardiovascular effects, including death,
have occurred when the PDE5 inhibitors are
combined with organic nitrates or alpha-blockers.
Careful teaching is very important to avoid this
drug–drug interaction.
Knowing your strengths and weaknesses helps you to
study more effectively. Take a PrepU Practice Quiz
to find out how you measure up!
ONLINE RESOURCES
An extensive range of additional resources to enhance teaching
and learning and to facilitate understanding of this chapter may
be found online at the text’s accompanying website, located on
thePoint at
These include Watch and
Learn videos, Concepts in Action animations, journal articles,
review questions, case studies, discussion topics and quizzes.
WEB LINKS
Healthcare providers and students may want to consult
the following Internet sources:
Andrology Australia.
Content/national+mens+health-1
Department of Health and Ageing, Australia. National
Male Health Policy.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Cawley, M. A. (2009). Testosterone replacement therapy: What to
look for, when to treat.
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