A Systematic Review on Administration of Botulinum Toxin in the Management of Male Sexual Dysfunctions.
Margarida Henriques, Simone Cilio, Pedro Ramos et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review assessed published evidence on botulinum toxin injections for erectile dysfunction (ED), premature ejaculation (PE), and Peyronie’s disease (PD) in men. Searches identified 108 articles, of which 9 met inclusion criteria: 6 on ED, 2 on PE, and 1 on PD. In ED, International Index of Erectile Function-Erectile Function domain scores improved in 41%-57.4% of patients, with benefits lasting up to 6 months. Findings for PE and PD were also favourable, but evidence was based on few studies.
Key findings
- For ED, IIEF-EF scores improved in 41%-57.4% of patients, with benefits lasting up to 6 months.
- For PE, ejaculation latency and subjective satisfaction increased at 1-3 months, but effects diminished by 6 months.
- One PD study reported a reduction in penile curvature (-7.9°), plaque thickness, and penile pain.
- Adverse effects were mild and local, reported in less than 10% of cases.
Why it matters
The review brings together early evidence for botulinum toxin across three male sexual dysfunctions, with reported improvements in function or symptoms and mostly mild local adverse effects. However, the small number and heterogeneity of included studies mean these findings are preliminary; they do not establish comparative effectiveness or define which patients are most likely to benefit.
What to keep in mind
Evidence was limited by small, heterogeneous studies and the absence of large randomized controlled trials; only one included study addressed Peyronie’s disease.