Regenerative therapies for erectile dysfunction: the influence of direct-to-consumer marketing on patient interest.

Background: Despite a lack of evidence, a number of "regenerative" therapies have become popularized treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED). Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and shockwave therapy have received significant attention through direct-to-consumer marketing and are advertised as viable alternatives to guideline-backed therapies. Additionally, focused low-intensity shock wave therapy (LiSWT) has become conflated with acoustic or radial wave therapy (rWT), although their mechanism of wave generation and tissue penetration is distinct.

Shock Wave Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction: Marketing and Practice Trends in Major Metropolitan Areas in the United States.

Introduction: Due to the increasing prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) and pronounced distress for patients, a direct-to-consumer market for shock wave therapy (SWT) has emerged. We sought to evaluate trends in marketing and implementation of SWT as a restorative treatment for ED in large metropolitan areas by investigating cost to patients, provider credentials and treatment protocols.

Methods: SWT providers in 8 of the most populous metropolitan areas were identified using Google search.

Analysis of Direct-to-Consumer Marketing of Platelet-Rich Plasma for Erectile Dysfunction in the US.

This cross-sectional study investigates costs, treatment protocols, and clinician credentials of platelet-rich plasma injection therapy for erectile dysfunction in the US.