Ongoing Clinical Trials for Sexual Dysfunction
This article provides information about ongoing clinical trials investigating treatments for sexual dysfunction. Currently, there is 1 clinical trial exploring the use of tadalafil to help men and women recover sexual function after rectal cancer treatment. The trial is being conducted in Sweden and aims to evaluate whether this medication can improve quality of life for cancer survivors.
Clinical trial locations
- Sweden
Study on Improving Sexual Function in Men and Women After Rectal Cancer Treatment Using Tadalafil
This clinical trial is exploring whether tadalafil, commonly known by the brand name Cialis, can help men and women recover their sexual function after being treated for rectal cancer. The study is taking place in Sweden and follows participants for up to 24 months to observe improvements in sexual health.
Who can participate?
The trial is looking for men and women who meet the following criteria:
- Adults over 18 years of age who have been diagnosed with rectal cancer at stages I to III
- Planning to have surgery to remove the cancer through the abdomen
- Were sexually active before their cancer diagnosis or had symptoms related to rectal cancer affecting sexual function
- Able to speak and write in Swedish fluently
- Women must not be pregnant or breastfeeding, confirmed by a pregnancy test
- Must provide written consent to participate in the study
Who cannot participate?
The trial cannot include individuals who:
- Have not been treated for rectal cancer
- Are not experiencing sexual or erectile dysfunction after cancer treatment
- Are unwilling to participate in a standardized rehabilitation program
- Cannot take 5 mg of tadalafil for medical reasons
- Are unable to provide informed consent or understand the study requirements
- Are part of a vulnerable population requiring extra protection or care
What is the focus of the trial?
The main goal of this study is to evaluate whether tadalafil can improve sexual and erectile function as part of a rehabilitation program after rectal cancer treatment. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either tadalafil or a placebo, which is an inactive substance used for comparison.
The trial will assess changes in sexual function using specific questionnaires. For women, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI-6) will measure improvements, while for men, the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) will be used. Additional assessments will look at changes in sexual activity, hormone levels, urinary function, and any side effects experienced during the study.
What medication is being tested?
The investigational drug being tested is tadalafil, taken as a 5 mg film-coated tablet. Tadalafil works by increasing blood flow to certain areas of the body, which can help improve erectile function in men and sexual function in women. It belongs to a class of medications called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors.
Participants will take the medication orally as part of the study protocol, and their progress will be monitored over the 24-month study period. The study is expected to conclude by June 30, 2026.
Summary
Currently, there is one clinical trial investigating treatments for sexual dysfunction following rectal cancer treatment. This trial, conducted in Sweden, focuses on the use of tadalafil to help both men and women recover their sexual function after surgery. The study highlights the importance of addressing quality of life issues for cancer survivors, particularly in areas such as sexual health that can significantly impact emotional well-being and relationships.
The trial offers hope for individuals who have experienced sexual difficulties after cancer treatment, providing a potential pathway to improved sexual function through a well-known medication that is already used for erectile dysfunction. Participants will benefit from careful monitoring and comprehensive assessments throughout the study period.