Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of Cao Ban Long capsules in treating erectile dysfunction (ED) through a non-controlled before-after study.
Methods: 30 men with ED (aged 28-65) were enrolled. In addition to being divided into groups according to the study objectives, these patients were also divided into groups according to traditional Chinese medicine patterns based on clinical examination. All patients were administered Cao Ban Long capsules 2 capsules/day for 8 weeks. ED symptoms were assessed using the IIEF-5 score before, after 4 weeks, and after 8 weeks of capsule use. All patients were monitored for adverse events and quality of life.
Results: The mean IIEF-5 score increased significantly from 11.8 points before treatment to 16.8 points after 4 weeks (p < 0.05) and 18.3 points after 8 weeks (p < 0.05). The best results were seen in patients in the Qi and Blood Deficiency group with an IIEF-5 score of 18.4 after 8 weeks of treatment (p<0.05). All patients experienced only mild gastrointestinal disturbances. Patients' quality of life improved after 8 weeks of treatment (mean ED-NHSLS score from 6.2 to 9.4 points for younger patients and from 4.8 to 8.2 points for patients aged 52 to 65).
Conclusion: Cao Ban Long capsules appear to be effective and safe in the treatment of ED, improving symptoms and quality of life in patients. Having said that, further research is needed to confirm these findings.