Erbay, IlkeAkin, Yesim2024-09-292024-09-2920242149-78932536-507Xhttps://doi.org/10.4274/cjms.2024.2023-107https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14619/7593BACKGROUND/AIMS: The prognosis of heart failure (HF) is closely related to the structural integrity of the endothelium. Endothelial dysfunction is observed as a characteristic feature of HF and it plays an important role in the development of erectile dysfunction (ED) in patients with HF. Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i) have been shown to increase microvascular endothelial cell function through their pleiotropic effects. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effects of SGLT-2i treatment on ED in patients with HF. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty sexually active HF patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction [(LVEF) <40%] and ED were enrolled in this study. In all patients, their functional status was assessed according to the New York Heart Association functional classification, and erectile function was assessed by the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) questionnaire at baseline and after three months of SGLT-2i treatment. RESULTS: SGLT-2i treatment resulted in a significant improvement in the SHIM scores (12.7 +/- 5.6 vs. 15.4 +/- 5.5, p<0.001). Predictors of improved SHIM scores with SGLT-2i were assessed using multivariable regression. Age (p=0.002), baseline SHIM scores (p=0.042), and lower extremity peripheral vascular disease (p=0.002) were identified as negative predictors of improvements in SHIM scores, while changes in brain natriuretic peptide levels (p=0.035) emerged as a significant predictor of improvement in SHIM scores. CONCLUSION: This cross-sectional study suggests that treatment by SGLT-2i could potentially provide advantages to patients with HF who also experience ED, enhancing their functional status.eninfo:eu-repo/semantics/openAccessHeart failureSGLT-2 inhibitorsSHIM scoresexual functionendothelial dysfunctionArticle10.4274/cjms.2024.2023-10717231679WOS:001274070500003N/A