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Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5), such as sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil, have revolutionized the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Few successes, in contrast, have been reported for the use of these agents in treatment of sexual arousal problems in women.

To review research examining efficacy of PDE5 in women, critique the methods and models employed, and integrate the findings within a broader, gender-specific understanding of female sexual response.

A conceptual and methodological review of all published studies examining PDE5 efficacy in female samples.

Study methods, populations, outcome measures, study results.

A total of 16 studies were reviewed. Studies using self-reported measures of sexual functioning showed mixed …