📈 New study shows topical NO nanoemulsions triggered erections in dogs, paving way for non-invasive 💊 ED treatment.
Key Term Definitions
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Condition making it difficult to get or maintain an erection.
- Nanoemulsion: Tiny droplets less than 100 nanometers in size. To picture their tiny size, a nanoemulsion droplet is about 1,000 times smaller than the diameter of a human hair. This allows them to be absorbed through the skin.
- Nitric Oxide (NO): Chemical that relaxes muscles and increases blood flow. NO acts like a signaling molecule, telling the smooth muscle cells in the penis to relax. This helps trigger erections.
- NOx: Nitrite and nitrate compounds used to measure nitric oxide levels.
📝 Introduction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) can significantly impact a man’s quality of life and self-esteem. With ED prevalence increasing with age, finding effective treatments is key for our aging population.
The standard oral ED drugs don’t work for everyone. Could a topical nitric oxide (NO) cream offer a simple, non-invasive solution?
🎓 Key Findings
- NO-containing nanoemulsions <5nm in diameter triggered erections when applied on dogs’ penile skin.
- The nanoemulsions increased blood NO levels by 200% and penis diameter by 15% in anesthetized dogs.
- No noticeable side effects were observed.
🧠 How It Works
Nitric oxide relaxes smooth muscles in the penis, increasing blood flow and enabling erections.
The nanoemulsions containing 800mM nitrite help transport NO through the skin and into the penis tissue.
📊 Implications
This topical nanoemulsion could provide an alternative ED treatment, especially for patients unresponsive to standard oral medications.
As a non-invasive option, it may improve convenience and quality of life.
✋ Limitations
- Small study with 4 dogs tested.
- More research needed to demonstrate safety and efficacy in humans.
🏢 Real-World Examples
| Company | Product |
|---|---|
| NeoViagra | Nitric oxide nanoemulsion cream |
| Nugenix | Topical testosterone booster cream |
💡 Implementation Tips
- Talk to your doctor about whether a topical NO cream could help your ED.
- Use caution with over-the-counter topical products until more research is done.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle with diet, exercise, and stress management.
🔬 Study Details
Study Type: Animal experiments on 4 beagle dogs
Title & Source: Transdermal water-in-oil nanocarriers of nitric oxide for triggering penile erection. Scientific Reports.
Researchers:
- Eunryel Nam, Kyung Hee University
- Saejong Yoo, Konkuk University
- Hwi-Yool Kim, Konkuk University
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can NO cream really help treat ED?
A: This early research suggests NO nanoemulsions may trigger erections when applied topically. However, more studies are needed to prove safety and efficacy in humans. Talk to your doctor before trying any over-the-counter ED creams.
Q: How was this nitric oxide study done?
A: Researchers optimized the nanoemulsion composition (HLB of 7, 6:4 oil:water ratio) for skin delivery of NO. The nanoemulsion or placebo was applied to 4 dogs’ penile skin. Erections were evaluated by measuring penis diameter, redness, and blood NOx levels.
Q: What lifestyle changes can help with ED?
A: Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise, reducing alcohol intake, quitting smoking, and managing stress have all been shown to help with ED. Work on these areas along with any treatments recommended by your doctor.
| Lifestyle Factor | Ways to Improve |
|---|---|
| Diet | Eat more veggies, fruits. Reduce processed foods. |
| Exercise | 150 min moderate exercise per week. |
| Alcohol | Limit to 1-2 drinks per day max. |
| Smoking | Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke. |
| Stress | Practice meditation, get social support. |
Q: How do NO creams work to improve erections?
A: NO relaxes the smooth muscle cells in the penis, allowing increased blood flow. This expansion of blood vessels enables erections. The nanoemulsions help deliver NO through the skin and into the penis tissue. Once absorbed, NO triggers biochemical reactions that boost erection-related signaling.
Q: Are there natural ways to boost nitric oxide?
A: Yes, some foods like beets, leafy greens, citrus fruits, and pomegranate may increase NO levels due to their nitrate content. Dietary supplements like L-arginine and L-citrulline also help with NO production. But check with your doctor before taking any supplements.
