Methods for treatment of sexual dysfunction in men and women using
combinations of phosphodiesterase (PDE) type 5 inhibitors and l-deprenyl
or propargylamine compounds are described. Methods of reducing the dosage
and preventing the side effects of PDE type 5 inhibitors are also
described. The methods comprise administering a therapeutically effective
amount of l-deprenyl or propargylamine compounds (also called monoamine
oxidase [MAO] inhibitors) in combination with PDE inhibitors. Stimulation
of nitric oxide production and vasodilation by l-deprenyl and
propargylamine compounds augments the actions of PDE inhibitors or other
drugs and methods used in the treatment of sexual dysfunction. The
composition described here enhances the actions of PDE inhibitors
primarily by increasing the generation of cyclic GMP by stimulating the
nitric oxide pathway and secondarily by providing several additional
benefits such as enhanced dopamine activity. Methods of enhancing the
efficacy of various PDE inhibitors in the treatment of a number of
disorders other than sexual dysfunction are also disclosed.