Non-invasive management of impotence with transcutaneous nitroglycerin.

Nitroglycerin plasters were applied to the penis in 10 impotent men and the erectile effect assessed. During laboratory testing all patients achieved an erectile response. Self-administration of nitroglycerin patches restored potency in 4 patients and was preferred to papaverine auto-injection by 3. Headache was a common side effect during initial administration. An attempt to treat impotence with nitroglycerin plaster seems worthwhile before starting extensive investigations or invasive treatment.