The Russian experience of studying vardenafil efficacy and safety in men with erectile dysfunction of various aetiologies

Abstract Background Vardenafil is a first-line drug in the therapy for erectile dysfunction (ED) of various aetiologies. Methods An open, multi-centre study assessing the efficacy and safety of vardenafil prescribed in flexible doses for 12 weeks to men with ED from various aetiologies was performed in Moscow in 2003–2004. A total of 129 patients aged from 22 to 76 years (mean = 45.7 ± 12.9) were enrolled into the study. The efficacy of the drug was evaluated using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) Questionnaire, individual patients’ diaries and the Global Assessment Questionnaire (GAQ). Results Scores for erectile function, maintenance of erection, satisfaction with sexual experience and satisfaction with overall sexual life all increased between the beginning and the end of this study, which has thus shown vardenafil's high efficacy and safety for patients. Conclusion Alongside its cardiovascular safety, one of the advantages of vardenafil is the opportunity for flexible dosing owing to the variety of dosages available.