CNN on persistent genital arousal disorder (PGAD)

CNN has a story that seems to be capturing quite a bit of traffic this weekend. Titled, "When being turned on is a turnoff," this article focuses on an unusual medical condition called persistent genital arousal disorder (PGAD). According to Wikipedia, PGAD used to be called Persistent Sexual Arousal Syndrome (PSAS) and Restless Genital Syndrome or Mempin Syndrome (ReGS or RGS). I admit that I never learned about persistent genital arousal disorder during medical school. I also don't remember learing about hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) during medical school.

So, what exactly is PGAD? Could it be linked to restless legs syndrome? How about priapism? I think we probably have more questions than answers when it comes to PGAD and I imagine that we'll learn more as science unveils the underlying pathophysiology of PGAD. You may be surprised to hear that PGAD could be linked to abruptly stopping antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Earlier this week, we also heard this: "U.K. woman has been diagnosed with persistent genital arousal disorder after falling off her Wii Fit board and damaging a nerve, the Toronto Sun reported." PGAD has been gaining more visibility through television shows like "20/20" and "Grey’s Anatomy."

Heard of Priligy (Dapoxetine)?

I saw a sign today that caught my attention (I won't tell you where I saw it, but you can probably take a guess). It was for a new drug called Priligy (Dapoxetine). This agent has been approved in several countries in Europe ,but not in the USA. Approved for what? For premature ejaculation. The drug is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), similar to those used to treat depression and anxiety. However, it is a short-acting formulation and is meant to be taken "as needed." It is currently approved in Sweden and Finland and is marketed by Janssen-Cilag, a part of the Johnson & Johnson family of companies.

Sexual health is one of those topics that many healthcare professionals don't really like to talk about. When new drugs like Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra emerged on the scene, this allowed clinicians to be a bit more comfortable having open conversations with their patients about sexual topics. So which topic is more uncomfortable to discuss: erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation?