We observed the effects of zinc on erectile dysfunction in a carefully designed study that involved a double-blind trial. Twenty stable hemodialysis patients participated, receiving either 50 mg of zinc as zinc acetate or a placebo for six months. The goal was to determine if zinc could enhance gonadal function, especially in men who often experience hormonal issues due to kidney problems.
At the end of the study, we noted significant improvements in the zinc-treated group compared to the placebo group. Those receiving zinc had a remarkable increase in plasma zinc levels, testosterone levels, and sperm counts. Specifically, testosterone levels rose from 2.8 to 5.2 ng/mL, and sperm counts doubled from 30 to 63 million/mL, indicating a marked improvement in reproductive health.
Not only did these participants show increased hormone levels, but they also experienced a noticeable drop in luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone, suggesting improved gonadal function. Alongside these biochemical changes, many reported better potency, enhanced libido, and increased frequency of intercourse, highlighting zinc’s role in reversing some aspects of erectile dysfunction related to zinc deficiency.
In conclusion, our findings suggest that zinc deficiency can be a reversible factor contributing to erectile dysfunction in hemodialysis patients, offering hope for those struggling with this issue.
Read More
9
Zinc improves erectile dysfunction
Zinc improves sexual performance and erectile function by preventing penile oxidative injury and upregulating circulating testosterone in lead-exposed rats.
We explored the impact of zinc treatment on erectile dysfunction, particularly in rats exposed to lead. The study involved twenty male Wistar rats, randomly assigned to four different groups: a control group, a group receiving zinc treatment, a group exposed to lead, and a group that received both lead and zinc therapy. This design allowed us to see how zinc could counteract the adverse effects of lead exposure on sexual function.
Our findings revealed that zinc co-administration significantly benefitted rats affected by lead, showing improvements in key sexual performance metrics. We observed enhancements in penile weight and increased latencies and frequencies of mating behaviors such as mounting, intromission, and ejaculation. In addition to these behavioral improvements, zinc treatment also helped restore important biological signals that drive sexual function, including nitric oxide and testosterone levels.
Overall, our study indicates that zinc can play a vital role in mitigating lead-induced sexual and erectile dysfunction by reducing oxidative stress and enhancing hormonal balance. This suggests potential therapeutic benefits of zinc in similar conditions affecting sexual health.
Read More
9
Zinc aids erectile function in rats
Zinc improves sexual and erectile function in HAART-treated rats via the upregulation of erectogenic enzymes and maintenance of redox balance.
We investigated the impact of zinc on erectile dysfunction associated with HAART (Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy) in a controlled study involving male Wistar rats. The research included four groups: a control group, a zinc-only group, a HAART-only group, and a group treated with both HAART and zinc. Our treatment lasted for eight weeks, allowing us to observe the effects of zinc supplementation in the context of HAART-induced sexual dysfunction.
The results were quite promising. We found that zinc significantly reduced the negative impacts HAART had on key factors related to sexual performance. Specifically, zinc treatment improved latency times for mating behaviors and enhanced overall motivation to engage in sexual activity. It also increased important biochemical markers such as nitric oxide and testosterone levels while decreasing harmful enzyme activities that could contribute to erectile dysfunction.
Beyond just improving physical responses, zinc helped restore a normal balance of oxidative stress in the penis. This means that the antioxidant properties of zinc were crucial in addressing inflammation and oxidative damage caused by HAART. In essence, we learned that zinc might be a valuable addition to treatment plans for maintaining sexual health in individuals undergoing HAART.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
7.5
Improved testosterone level
4 people found this helpful
Zinc is essential for maintaining a normal testosterone level. Insufficient testosterone can lead to fatigue, poor libido, erectile dysfunction, and even loss of muscle mass. Adequate zinc may help prevent prostate disease and improve sperm quality for those with fertility needs. It also supports skin and hair health, mitigating issues like hair loss and dry skin. For women, zinc may alleviate premenstrual syndrome and postmenopausal vaginal dryness, enhancing sexual quality of life.
Read More
9
Enhanced immunity
It’s nearly impossible to fully replace zinc deficiency through diet alone, but zinc is crucial for immunity, visual acuity, hair health, and preventing sexual dysfunctions. I've noticed significant improvement in my hair health. After injuring my finger, the wound healed remarkably well in just a few days. I take zinc combined with other vitamins and, while I can't pinpoint which one had the most effect, the results speak for themselves. I take a zinc complex for preventive health every six months.
Read More
9
Enhanced erectile function
The dose and form of zinc attracted me to this product; I prefer glycinate over other forms. My husband has noticed increased erectile function, which highlights zinc’s role in inhibiting the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. It seems beneficial for improving erectile dysfunction.
We observed the effects of zinc on erectile dysfunction in a carefully designed study that involved a double-blind trial. Twenty stable hemodialysis patients participated, receiving either 50 mg of zinc as zinc acetate or a placebo for six months. The goal was to determine if zinc could enhance gonadal function, especially in men who often experience hormonal issues due to kidney problems.
At the end of the study, we noted significant improvements in the zinc-treated group compared to the placebo group. Those receiving zinc had a remarkable increase in plasma zinc levels, testosterone levels, and sperm counts. Specifically, testosterone levels rose from 2.8 to 5.2 ng/mL, and sperm counts doubled from 30 to 63 million/mL, indicating a marked improvement in reproductive health.
Not only did these participants show increased hormone levels, but they also experienced a noticeable drop in luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone, suggesting improved gonadal function. Alongside these biochemical changes, many reported better potency, enhanced libido, and increased frequency of intercourse, highlighting zinc’s role in reversing some aspects of erectile dysfunction related to zinc deficiency.
In conclusion, our findings suggest that zinc deficiency can be a reversible factor contributing to erectile dysfunction in hemodialysis patients, offering hope for those struggling with this issue.
Read More
9
Zinc improves erectile dysfunction
Zinc improves sexual performance and erectile function by preventing penile oxidative injury and upregulating circulating testosterone in lead-exposed rats.
We explored the impact of zinc treatment on erectile dysfunction, particularly in rats exposed to lead. The study involved twenty male Wistar rats, randomly assigned to four different groups: a control group, a group receiving zinc treatment, a group exposed to lead, and a group that received both lead and zinc therapy. This design allowed us to see how zinc could counteract the adverse effects of lead exposure on sexual function.
Our findings revealed that zinc co-administration significantly benefitted rats affected by lead, showing improvements in key sexual performance metrics. We observed enhancements in penile weight and increased latencies and frequencies of mating behaviors such as mounting, intromission, and ejaculation. In addition to these behavioral improvements, zinc treatment also helped restore important biological signals that drive sexual function, including nitric oxide and testosterone levels.
Overall, our study indicates that zinc can play a vital role in mitigating lead-induced sexual and erectile dysfunction by reducing oxidative stress and enhancing hormonal balance. This suggests potential therapeutic benefits of zinc in similar conditions affecting sexual health.
Read More
9
Zinc aids erectile function in rats
Zinc improves sexual and erectile function in HAART-treated rats via the upregulation of erectogenic enzymes and maintenance of redox balance.
We investigated the impact of zinc on erectile dysfunction associated with HAART (Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy) in a controlled study involving male Wistar rats. The research included four groups: a control group, a zinc-only group, a HAART-only group, and a group treated with both HAART and zinc. Our treatment lasted for eight weeks, allowing us to observe the effects of zinc supplementation in the context of HAART-induced sexual dysfunction.
The results were quite promising. We found that zinc significantly reduced the negative impacts HAART had on key factors related to sexual performance. Specifically, zinc treatment improved latency times for mating behaviors and enhanced overall motivation to engage in sexual activity. It also increased important biochemical markers such as nitric oxide and testosterone levels while decreasing harmful enzyme activities that could contribute to erectile dysfunction.
Beyond just improving physical responses, zinc helped restore a normal balance of oxidative stress in the penis. This means that the antioxidant properties of zinc were crucial in addressing inflammation and oxidative damage caused by HAART. In essence, we learned that zinc might be a valuable addition to treatment plans for maintaining sexual health in individuals undergoing HAART.
Read More
7
Zinc's variable effectiveness in CKD
Interventions for treating sexual dysfunction in patients with chronic kidney disease.
We explored the role of zinc in treating erectile dysfunction, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Several studies were analyzed, focusing primarily on the effectiveness of zinc compared to a placebo.
Through this review, we observed that while oral zinc treatment showed some promise in enhancing testosterone levels, particularly in one study, the overall findings were mixed. For instance, when zinc was added to dialysate, there was no significant increase in testosterone levels, which is crucial for sexual function.
The research on zinc and its effects on erectile dysfunction remains limited, and there's a clear need for more extensive studies. It's important to note that while PDE5 inhibitors, another treatment option, showed noteworthy improvements, zinc alone did not consistently deliver compelling results. This indicates that while zinc might have potential, it shouldn’t be viewed as a standalone solution for erectile dysfunction in CKD patients at this stage.
We conducted a study to understand how zinc might influence erectile dysfunction, particularly in men taking hydrochlorothiazide, a medication for high blood pressure. The research involved 39 middle-aged men on hydrochlorothiazide and 27 healthy men not on medication. We found a notably higher rate of sexual dysfunction among those taking hydrochlorothiazide—56% compared to just 11% in the control group.
Importantly, we noticed that hydrochlorothiazide affected serum zinc levels in some patients. In further investigation, we divided 22 men with sexual dysfunction into two groups. One received zinc supplements for a month, while the other received magnesium. After this period, we observed that zinc levels in the blood returned to normal for only eight out of the twenty-two patients, with improvements in sexual dysfunction symptoms reported by five of them.
While our findings suggest that low zinc levels might be linked to sexual dysfunction, the overall impact of zinc supplementation remains inconclusive. In fact, the improvements we saw weren't consistent across the board, and the definitive role of zinc in addressing sexual dysfunction is still up for debate.
Zinc is essential for maintaining a normal testosterone level. Insufficient testosterone can lead to fatigue, poor libido, erectile dysfunction, and even loss of muscle mass. Adequate zinc may help prevent prostate disease and improve sperm quality for those with fertility needs. It also supports skin and hair health, mitigating issues like hair loss and dry skin. For women, zinc may alleviate premenstrual syndrome and postmenopausal vaginal dryness, enhancing sexual quality of life.
Read More
9
Enhanced immunity
It’s nearly impossible to fully replace zinc deficiency through diet alone, but zinc is crucial for immunity, visual acuity, hair health, and preventing sexual dysfunctions. I've noticed significant improvement in my hair health. After injuring my finger, the wound healed remarkably well in just a few days. I take zinc combined with other vitamins and, while I can't pinpoint which one had the most effect, the results speak for themselves. I take a zinc complex for preventive health every six months.
Read More
9
Enhanced erectile function
The dose and form of zinc attracted me to this product; I prefer glycinate over other forms. My husband has noticed increased erectile function, which highlights zinc’s role in inhibiting the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. It seems beneficial for improving erectile dysfunction.
Read More
7.5
Increased sexual energy
I’ve experienced less stomach pain, nausea, and an increase in sexual energy since taking zinc. At 40, I take one tablet daily for my sexual health, totalling 60mg per day. Although it feels like a high dose, I’ve not experienced side effects. I always take it after meals, as taking it on an empty stomach made me feel nauseous. This zinc glycine formulation appears gentler on my stomach and positively impacts my sex life, helping with erectile dysfunction.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a common condition characterized by the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. It can affect men of all ages but is more prevalent in older adults. While occasional difficulties with erections are normal and often not a cause for concern, persistent ED can indicate underlying health issues, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or psychological factors like anxiety and depression.
Treatment options for ED are diverse and can include lifestyle changes, therapy, oral medications like PDE5 inhibitors (such as Viagra or Cialis), vacuum erection devices, and in more severe cases, surgical interventions. It’s important for individuals experiencing symptoms of ED to consult with a healthcare professional to identify the underlying causes and explore appropriate treatment options tailored to their specific needs.
Zinc is a versatile metal known for its various applications in industry and health. It is a bluish-white metallic element represented by the symbol Zn and atomic number 30 on the periodic table. Zinc is primarily used for galvanizing steel to prevent rusting, in the manufacturing of alloys, and as a component in batteries. Additionally, zinc plays a crucial role in biological processes, making it an essential trace element in the human diet. It is involved in immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, and DNA synthesis, highlighting its importance in maintaining overall health and well-being.
Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including hormone production and reproductive health. Some studies suggest that zinc may have a positive impact on testosterone levels, which could potentially influence erectile function. A deficiency in zinc has been associated with lowered testosterone, and supplementing with zinc may help restore proper levels, thus potentially alleviating some issues related to erectile dysfunction (ED).
However, it’s important to note that while zinc supplementation might aid individuals with a deficiency, it should not be seen as a standalone treatment for ED. The causes of erectile dysfunction can be complex, involving physical, psychological, and lifestyle factors. Therefore, if you’re experiencing ED, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and to discuss potential treatment options tailored to your specific needs.
Based on user reviews, the timeframe for experiencing improvements in erectile dysfunction when taking supplements like zinc varies among individuals. Some users report noticeable enhancements in sexual health soon after starting their regimen, highlighting significant changes within weeks. For instance, one user noted increased erectile function attributed to zinc's influence on testosterone levels, suggesting results might be observed relatively quickly after consistent use Read Review.
Another user also mentioned an increase in sexual energy and overall improvements in sexual health with regular intake of zinc, although specific timelines for results weren't mentioned Read Review. While some users may experience changes shortly after beginning supplementation, individual responses can vary based on factors like initial health status, dosage, and whether zinc is taken in conjunction with other vitamins or lifestyle adjustments. It can be beneficial to track personal progress over a few weeks to gauge effectiveness.
Zinc supplementation has garnered attention for its potential benefits in alleviating erectile dysfunction (ED), particularly in specific populations or conditions. Research shows that in cases such as lead exposure and HAART-related sexual dysfunction, zinc treatment has led to notable improvements in erectile function metrics, such as mating behaviors and hormone levels, including testosterone and nitric oxide [1][2]. Additionally, a study involving patients undergoing hemodialysis indicated significant enhancements in testosterone levels and overall sexual health following zinc supplementation, thereby suggesting that zinc deficiency may contribute to ED in such populations [7].
However, the effectiveness of zinc as a standalone treatment for ED remains inconclusive. In studies involving chronic kidney disease patients and those with high homocysteine levels, results were mixed, with some suggesting only slight enhancements in hormonal levels and indicating the need for further research [4][5][3]. As such, while zinc shows promise in specific contexts, more extensive and rigorous studies are necessary to conclusively determine its role in managing erectile dysfunction across broader populations.
Users have reported a variety of improvements associated with zinc supplementation, particularly in areas linked to sexual health and overall vitality. One user experienced enhanced erectile function, attributing this to zinc's role in regulating testosterone levels, which is essential for combating erectile dysfunction Read Review. Additionally, another review noted an increase in sexual energy and less stomach discomfort after starting a zinc regimen, highlighting the supplement's potential benefits for improving sexual experience and vitality Read Review.
Beyond sexual health, users also reported improvements in hair and skin conditions, suggesting zinc's broader implications for overall well-being. For instance, one individual highlighted remarkable healing of a wound and enhancement in hair health after incorporating zinc into their supplements Read Review. Others acknowledged the importance of zinc in alleviating conditions like premenstrual syndrome and promoting sperm quality, underlining its significance for both men and women in maintaining reproductive health and managing hormonal balance Read Review. While these anecdotal experiences offer encouraging insights, it's essential to remember that individual results may vary based on several factors including dosage, duration of use, and personal health circumstances.
Based on user reviews, there is a general consensus regarding the positive effects of combining zinc with other supplements for managing erectile dysfunction. Users have reported improvements in sexual health when zinc is included in their supplement regimen alongside other vitamins. One review noted a significant increase in erectile function attributed specifically to zinc's role in testosterone regulation, indicating efficacy when combined with other supplements Read Review.
In particular, one user mentioned taking a zinc complex along with various other vitamins, stating that while they couldn't identify which specific supplement contributed most to their improvements, the overall results were noteworthy Read Review. Another user highlighted that taking zinc post-meals not only helped mitigate digestive discomfort but also positively impacted their sexual energy, suggesting that the timing and combination of supplements could be beneficial for those dealing with erectile dysfunction Read Review. While individual experiences may vary, these insights suggest that a careful combination of zinc with other supplements may enhance effectiveness in addressing erectile dysfunction.
Zinc supplementation has been indicated to potentially play a beneficial role in treating erectile dysfunction, particularly in specific contexts. Research suggests that a dose of 50 mg of zinc, administered as zinc acetate, over a period of six months can significantly improve testosterone levels and reproductive health in patients undergoing hemodialysis ([7]). This increase in testosterone, alongside improvements in other sexual health indicators, demonstrates the potential for zinc as an adjunctive therapy in erectile dysfunction associated with conditions that impair gonadal function.
However, it's important to note that while zinc may offer benefits, results can vary based on individual circumstances and underlying health issues. Some studies have shown inconclusive or limited efficacy of zinc in addressing erectile dysfunction related to chronic kidney disease or other medical conditions. For example, the addition of zinc in treatments for sexual dysfunction in chronic kidney disease did not consistently show significant improvements in all trials ([5], [4]). Therefore, while 50 mg appears to be a potentially effective dose in certain populations, further research is warranted to understand zinc's overall effectiveness as a treatment for erectile dysfunction.
9
Enhanced erectile function
The dose and form of zinc attracted me to this product; I prefer glycinate over other forms. My husband has noticed increased erectile function, which highlights zinc’s role in inhibiting the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. It seems beneficial for improving erectile dysfunction.
7.5
Increased sexual energy
I’ve experienced less stomach pain, nausea, and an increase in sexual energy since taking zinc. At 40, I take one tablet daily for my sexual health, totalling 60mg per day. Although it feels like a high dose, I’ve not experienced side effects. I always take it after meals, as taking it on an empty stomach made me feel nauseous. This zinc glycine formulation appears gentler on my stomach and positively impacts my sex life, helping with erectile dysfunction.
9
Enhanced immunity
It’s nearly impossible to fully replace zinc deficiency through diet alone, but zinc is crucial for immunity, visual acuity, hair health, and preventing sexual dysfunctions. I've noticed significant improvement in my hair health. After injuring my finger, the wound healed remarkably well in just a few days. I take zinc combined with other vitamins and, while I can't pinpoint which one had the most effect, the results speak for themselves. I take a zinc complex for preventive health every six months.
7.5
Improved testosterone level
4 people found this helpful
Zinc is essential for maintaining a normal testosterone level. Insufficient testosterone can lead to fatigue, poor libido, erectile dysfunction, and even loss of muscle mass. Adequate zinc may help prevent prostate disease and improve sperm quality for those with fertility needs. It also supports skin and hair health, mitigating issues like hair loss and dry skin. For women, zinc may alleviate premenstrual syndrome and postmenopausal vaginal dryness, enhancing sexual quality of life.
9
Zinc improves erectile dysfunction
Zinc improves sexual performance and erectile function by preventing penile oxidative injury and upregulating circulating testosterone in lead-exposed rats.
We explored the impact of zinc treatment on erectile dysfunction, particularly in rats exposed to lead. The study involved twenty male Wistar rats, randomly assigned to four different groups: a control group, a group receiving zinc treatment, a group exposed to lead, and a group that received both lead and zinc therapy. This design allowed us to see how zinc could counteract the adverse effects of lead exposure on sexual function.
Our findings revealed that zinc co-administration significantly benefitted rats affected by lead, showing improvements in key sexual performance metrics. We observed enhancements in penile weight and increased latencies and frequencies of mating behaviors such as mounting, intromission, and ejaculation. In addition to these behavioral improvements, zinc treatment also helped restore important biological signals that drive sexual function, including nitric oxide and testosterone levels.
Overall, our study indicates that zinc can play a vital role in mitigating lead-induced sexual and erectile dysfunction by reducing oxidative stress and enhancing hormonal balance. This suggests potential therapeutic benefits of zinc in similar conditions affecting sexual health.
9
Zinc aids erectile function in rats
Zinc improves sexual and erectile function in HAART-treated rats via the upregulation of erectogenic enzymes and maintenance of redox balance.
We investigated the impact of zinc on erectile dysfunction associated with HAART (Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy) in a controlled study involving male Wistar rats. The research included four groups: a control group, a zinc-only group, a HAART-only group, and a group treated with both HAART and zinc. Our treatment lasted for eight weeks, allowing us to observe the effects of zinc supplementation in the context of HAART-induced sexual dysfunction.
The results were quite promising. We found that zinc significantly reduced the negative impacts HAART had on key factors related to sexual performance. Specifically, zinc treatment improved latency times for mating behaviors and enhanced overall motivation to engage in sexual activity. It also increased important biochemical markers such as nitric oxide and testosterone levels while decreasing harmful enzyme activities that could contribute to erectile dysfunction.
Beyond just improving physical responses, zinc helped restore a normal balance of oxidative stress in the penis. This means that the antioxidant properties of zinc were crucial in addressing inflammation and oxidative damage caused by HAART. In essence, we learned that zinc might be a valuable addition to treatment plans for maintaining sexual health in individuals undergoing HAART.
9.5
Zinc improves erectile dysfunction
Effect of oral zinc therapy on gonadal function in hemodialysis patients. A double-blind study.
We observed the effects of zinc on erectile dysfunction in a carefully designed study that involved a double-blind trial. Twenty stable hemodialysis patients participated, receiving either 50 mg of zinc as zinc acetate or a placebo for six months. The goal was to determine if zinc could enhance gonadal function, especially in men who often experience hormonal issues due to kidney problems.
At the end of the study, we noted significant improvements in the zinc-treated group compared to the placebo group. Those receiving zinc had a remarkable increase in plasma zinc levels, testosterone levels, and sperm counts. Specifically, testosterone levels rose from 2.8 to 5.2 ng/mL, and sperm counts doubled from 30 to 63 million/mL, indicating a marked improvement in reproductive health.
Not only did these participants show increased hormone levels, but they also experienced a noticeable drop in luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone, suggesting improved gonadal function. Alongside these biochemical changes, many reported better potency, enhanced libido, and increased frequency of intercourse, highlighting zinc’s role in reversing some aspects of erectile dysfunction related to zinc deficiency.
In conclusion, our findings suggest that zinc deficiency can be a reversible factor contributing to erectile dysfunction in hemodialysis patients, offering hope for those struggling with this issue.
7
Zinc's variable effectiveness in CKD
Interventions for treating sexual dysfunction in patients with chronic kidney disease.
We explored the role of zinc in treating erectile dysfunction, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Several studies were analyzed, focusing primarily on the effectiveness of zinc compared to a placebo.
Through this review, we observed that while oral zinc treatment showed some promise in enhancing testosterone levels, particularly in one study, the overall findings were mixed. For instance, when zinc was added to dialysate, there was no significant increase in testosterone levels, which is crucial for sexual function.
The research on zinc and its effects on erectile dysfunction remains limited, and there's a clear need for more extensive studies. It's important to note that while PDE5 inhibitors, another treatment option, showed noteworthy improvements, zinc alone did not consistently deliver compelling results. This indicates that while zinc might have potential, it shouldn’t be viewed as a standalone solution for erectile dysfunction in CKD patients at this stage.
4
Zinc treatment offers limited benefits
Treatment options for sexual dysfunction in patients with chronic kidney disease: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.
We explored the effectiveness of zinc treatment for erectile dysfunction, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The study included fourteen trials with a total of 328 patients. These trials focused on how zinc influences sexual health and whether it can improve erectile function.
When we looked specifically at zinc, we saw that while there was a notable improvement in testosterone levels with oral zinc treatment, the addition of zinc to dialysis did not significantly boost testosterone levels. This indicates that zinc might have some benefits, but the evidence is not strong enough to conclude its effectiveness as a standalone treatment for erectile dysfunction.
Overall, while some positive effects were observed, the results suggest that more research is needed. We found limited evidence supporting the routine use of zinc for managing sexual dysfunction in CKD patients. The need for further studies highlights the complexity of addressing sexual health in this population.
5
Zinc's unclear impact on ED
[Effects of plasma Hcy on the contents of CO and HO-2 in the corpus cavernosum of ED rats with hyperhomocysteinemia].
We explored the role of zinc in treating erectile dysfunction (ED) in rats suffering from hyperhomocysteinemia, a condition marked by high levels of homocysteine that can lead to ED. In this study, we worked with 40 male Wistar rats. Ten were used as normal controls, while the remaining 30 were divided into three groups after developing hyperhomocysteinemia through a high methionine diet.
One group continued with the high methionine diet, while another received betaine hydrochloride, and the third group was given zinc porphyrin IX. We recorded the frequency of penile erections over 4 weeks and measured the levels of homocysteine, carbon monoxide (CO), and heme oxygenase 2 (HO-2) in the corpus cavernosum of the rats.
While the study examined zinc's effect amid other treatments, results indicated that the presence of zinc did not lead to a significant increase in erectile function compared to the control group. We noted decreased levels of CO and HO-2 closely linked to the onset of ED in the hyperhomocysteinemic rats. While betaine hydrochloride showed promise in reducing homocysteine levels and enhancing CO content, zinc's isolated impact wasn't fully determined in this mixture of treatments.
Overall, it's clear that further research is needed to evaluate zinc's effectiveness when it stands alone as a treatment for erectile dysfunction.
References
Besong EE, Akhigbe TM, Ashonibare PJ, Oladipo AA, Obimma JN, et al. Zinc improves sexual performance and erectile function by preventing penile oxidative injury and upregulating circulating testosterone in lead-exposed rats. Redox Rep. 2023;28:2225675. 10.1080/13510002.2023.2225675
Akhigbe RE, Hamed MA, Odetayo AF, Akhigbe TM, Oyedokun PA. Zinc improves sexual and erectile function in HAART-treated rats via the upregulation of erectogenic enzymes and maintenance of redox balance. Aging Male. 2023;26:2205517. 10.1080/13685538.2023.2205517
Qin WB, Huang WJ, Chi BJ, He HL, Chen DY, et al. [Effects of plasma Hcy on the contents of CO and HO-2 in the corpus cavernosum of ED rats with hyperhomocysteinemia]. Zhonghua Nan Ke Xue. 2013;19:398.
Vecchio M, Navaneethan SD, Johnson DW, Lucisano G, Graziano G, et al. Interventions for treating sexual dysfunction in patients with chronic kidney disease. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010. 10.1002/14651858.CD007747.pub2
Vecchio M, Navaneethan SD, Johnson DW, Lucisano G, Graziano G, et al. Treatment options for sexual dysfunction in patients with chronic kidney disease: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2010;5:985. 10.2215/CJN.09081209
Khedun SM, Naicker T, Maharaj B. Zinc, hydrochlorothiazide and sexual dysfunction. Cent Afr J Med. 1995;41:312.
Mahajan SK, Abbasi AA, Prasad AS, Rabbani P, Briggs WA, et al. Effect of oral zinc therapy on gonadal function in hemodialysis patients. A double-blind study. Ann Intern Med. 1982;97:357.