Minoxidil Versus Nitroglycerin: A Prospective Double-Blind Controlled Trial in Transcutaneous Erection Facilitation for Organic Impotence

A study conducted 31 years ago compared the effectiveness of topically applied minoxidil, nitroglycerin, and a placebo in facilitating erections in patients with organic impotence. The study found that minoxidil was more effective than nitroglycerin and placebo in increasing diameter, rigidity, and arterial flow of the penis. The highest activity was found in neurogenically impotent patients, and fewer side effects were found with minoxidil than with nitroglycerin. The study proposes minoxidil as a long-term therapeutic agent for organic impotence.