The research of 509 Australian men with erectile dysfunction[1] found the average spend on medication is $616 per year - a figure that rises to $841 per year for men with higher incomes.

To pay for their medication some make sacrifices in other areas such as not going out (52 per cent) and buying cheaper food (17 per cent). However, the extra outlay for medication also raised their partner’s expectations, with one in three men surveyed saying their relationship would suffer if they stopped treatment for erectile dysfunction.

The cost of medication was a concern with almost half of respondents taking medication for erectile dysfunction at least once a week. But any reduction in the cost of medication would not necessarily result in a reduced medical bill with three quarters saying they would buy more erectile dysfunction medication if it was $10 to $15 cheaper per typical four pill pack.

Commenting on the research, Men’s Health Lecturer and GP Dr. Raymond Seidler, said: “Erectile dysfunction is still a taboo subject for many men despite the large amounts of money they spend on medication and the fact erectile dysfunction can be a marker for serious health conditions such as cardiovascular disease. Those experiencing the condition should see their doctor for a health check and discuss affordable and effective erectile dysfunction treatment options.”

Erectile dysfunction is a common problem affecting one in five Australian men aged over 40 years.[2] Anxiety, tiredness and underlying conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol are the main causes of erectile dysfunction.[3]

ends

Issued on behalf of Bayer Schering Pharma by Edelman

For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact Edelman:

Ben Seal, (02 9291 3380, or 0419 185 662 or ben.seal@edelman.com

Cassandra Rhodes, (02) 9291 3362 or 0432 639 493 or cassandra.rhodes@edelman.com