- John P Mulhall: Department of Urology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York Presbyterian Hospital, 525 East 68th Street, New York, NY 10021, USA. jpm2005@med.cornell.edu
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The existence of three phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors has resulted in an increase in the marketing of the drugs. This has led to a shift in focus from scientifically rigorous endpoints such as efficacy and adverse event profiles to patient preference.
RECENT FINDINGS: Although no consensus currently exists as to the correct methodology for preference studies, some basic guidelines should be adhered to, including: (1) the double-blinding of drug administration; (2) non-biased drug administration instructions; (3) an adequately conducted crossover study; (4) comparison of equivalent doses; (5) standardized preference assessment; (6) declaration of patient demographics; and (7) rigorous statistical analysis. These factors are discussed in the light of the three published preference studies.
SUMMARY: In the final analysis, it is unclear to this author how preference studies impact upon clinician decision-making when confronted by a patient with erectile dysfunction.