This analysis assessed the effect of oral sildenafil on the quality of life of 940 men who suffered from broad spectrum erectile dysfunction (ED). The group was comprised of 281 men with organic erectile problems, 213 with psychogenic difficulties, 371 with mixed ED, and 11 who fell into the other category. The men's average age was 55, and they had suffered from erectile dysfunction for about 4 years and 10 months. The researchers took data from three European, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials lasting 12 weeks.

During double-blind treatment, patients received 25 mg, 50 mg, or 100 mg of either sildenafil or placebo. The investigators measured efficacy by utilizing the International Index of Erectile Function, an event log of erectile activity, and end of treatment questions. The investigators measured Quality of Life through endpoints based on questions at the start of treatment and at 12 weeks. Overall, a segment of men tested with better mental and physical health as compared to three months previously. They felt they had improved well-being, less depression, and better self-control. Some patients on sildenafil felt they had a more satisfactory relationship with their partner and less erectile problems. The improvement in the seven Quality of Life endpoints ranged from 0% to 30%, versus -4% to 7% for patients taking placebo. The researchers concluded that oral sildenafil resulted in "significant improvements" in key Quality of Life Parameters in men with broad- spectrum erectile dysfunction.