Pharmacotherapy for Inducing an Erection

Penile hemodynamic studies require routine induction protocols for achieving rigid erections possible, which is usually obtained using intracavernous injections of vasoactive agents. In this scenario, the examiner must ensure a sufficient dose to allow for complete smooth muscle relaxation without leading to prolonged erections and priapism, which consists a challenge. Moreover, these agents are commonly used as a long-term treatment for erectile dysfunction because they are efficient in reestablishing functional erections. There are several combination possibilities in order to provide a synergic effect of these medications and maximize efficacy. In this chapter, pharmacological mechanisms of intracavernous vasoactive agents are provided along with practical hints to perform safe and effective erection-induction protocols.