A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of sildenafil (Viagra) in Parkinson's disease men with erectile dysfunction

The purpose of this research study is to compare sildenafil (Viagra) to placebo (an inactive medication or sugar pill), in the treatment of men with Parkinson’s disease who experience sexual problems due to insufficient penile erection (erection of the penis). Viagra has been approved for treatment of erectile problems, although there are no reports of the drug’s effectiveness for men with Parkinson’s disease. This is a double-blind study, which means that neither the participants nor the investigators involved in the study will know which treatment order participants have been assigned until the end of the study. A total of 20 men will be recruited to participate in this research study. The study involves two 4-week treatment phases.

You may be eligible to participate in this study if you:

• Are a male
• Fulfill diagnostic criteria for Parkinson’s disease
• Are between the ages of 35-75
• Are in a stable sexual relationship
• Have erectile dysfunction, as defined by an inability to achieve an erection sufficient for intercourse more than 50% of attempts during the preceding three months

You will be excluded from this study if you have:

• Severe Parkinson’s disease disability, as assessed by conventional staging methods
• History of stroke, myocardial infarction, or significant arrhythmia within the past six months

This is a partial list of eligibility and exclusion criteria. To inquire about your eligibility, please call the contact number provided. If you wish to inquire via e-mail, please include the title of the study in your message.