US 20080153841A1 (19) United States (12) Patent Application Publication (10) Pub. No.: US 2008/0153841 A1 B00lell (43) Pub. Date: Jun. 26, 2008

(54) TREATMENT OF PREMATURE (60) Provisional application No. 60/260.564, filed on Jan. EUACULATION 9, 2001. (75) Inventor: Mitradev Boolell, Sandwich (GB) (30) Foreign Application Priority Data Correspondence Address: PFIZER INC Nov. 20, 2000 (GB) ...... OO28245.9 Steve T. Zelson O O 150 EAST 42ND STREET,5TH FLOOR-STOP49 Publication Classification NEW YORK, NY 10017-5612 (51) Int. Cl. A 6LX 3L/2197 (2006.01) (73) Assignee: Pfizer Inc A6IP 5/2 (2006.01) (21) Appl. No.: 12/044,486 (52) U.S. Cl...... 514/252.16 (22) Filed: Mar. 7, 2008 (57) ABSTRACT Related U.S. Application Data This invention relates to the use of cyclic guanosine 3',5'- (63) Continuation of application No. 1 1/292.713, filed on monophosphate phosphodiesterase type five inhibitors, Dec. 1, 2005, now abandoned, Continuation of appli including in particular the compound sildenafil. for the treat cation No. 09/990,955, filed on Nov. 16, 2001, now ment of premature ejaculation in patients with normal erectile abandoned. function. US 2008/O153841 A1 Jun. 26, 2008

TREATMENT OF PREMATURE presenters do so because of the impact the condition has on EUACULATION the relationship with the partner. Stress, relationship difficul ties and/or effect on quality of life are the key triggers for CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED sufferers to seek treatment for PE. APPLICATIONS 0012 Ejaculation is dependent on the sympathetic and 0001. The present application is a U.S. non-provisional parasympathetic nervous systems. Efferent impulses via the application. This application claims the benefit of U.S. sympathetic nervous system to the vas deferens and the epi 60/260,564, filed on Jan. 9, 2001, under 35 USC 119(e). didymis produce Smooth muscle contraction, moving sperm into the posterior urethra. Similar contractions of the seminal FIELD OF THE INVENTION vesicles, prostatic glands and the bulbourethral glands increase the volume and fluid content of semen. Expulsion of 0002 This invention relates to the use of cyclic guanosine semen is mediated by efferent impulses originating from the 3',5'-monophosphate phosphodiesterase type five inhibitors nucleus of Onuf in the spinal cord, which pass via the para (hereinafter PDE5 inhibitors) for the treatment of premature sympathetic nervous system and cause rhythmic contractions ejaculation (PE). Particular PDE5 inhibitors are sildenafil. of the bulbocavemous, ischiocavemous and pelvic floor IC-351, Vardenafil, 5-2-ethoxy-5-(4-ethylpiperazin-1-ylsul muscles. Cortical control of ejaculation is still under debate in phonyl)pyridin-3-yl)-3-ethyl-2-[2-methoxyethyl-2,6-dihy humans. In the rat the medial pre-optic area and the paraven dro-7H-pyrazolo 4,3-dipyrimidin-7-one and 5-(5-acetyl-2- tricular nucleus of the hypothalamus seem to be involved in butoxy-3-pyridinyl)-3-ethyl-2-(1-ethyl-3-azetidinyl)-2,6- ejaculation. dihydro-7H-pyrazolo 4,3-dipyrimidin-7-one. (0013 International patent application WO94/28902 dis closes compounds which are inhibitors of the coMP PDE5 BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION enzyme are potent and effective compounds for the treatment 0003 PE is a relatively common sexual dysfunction in of male erectile dysfunction (MED, impotence) and for men. It has been defined in several different ways but the most female sexual disorders. This discovery led to the develop widely accepted is the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of ment of the compound sildenafil (5-2-ethoxy-5-(4-methyl Mental Disorders IV one which states: “PE is a lifelong 1-piperazinylsulphonyl)phenyl-1-methyl-3-n-propyl-1,6- persistent or recurrent ejaculation with minimal sexual stimu dihydro-7H-pyrazolo 4,3-dipyrimidin-7-one) (VIAGRATM) lation before, upon or shortly after penetration and before the which has proved to be outstandingly successful as the first patient wishes it. The clinician must take into account factors orally effective treatment for MED. that affect duration of the excitement phase, Such as age, 0014. There are at present no approved drugs available for novelty of the sexual partner or stimulation, and frequency of treating PE. The most commonly off-label prescribed medi sexual activity. The disturbance causes marked distress or cations are the anti-depressants (for example clomipramine) interpersonal difficulty.” and the selective seretonin re-uptake inhibitors (for example 0004. The International Classification of Diseases 10 defi paroxetine and Sertraline). These drugs are often not well nition states: “There is an inability to delay ejaculation suffi accepted by patients because they are regarded as anti-depres ciently to enjoy lovemaking, manifest as either of the follow sants. They are used off-label, and though effective when ing: (1) occurrence of ejaculation before or very soon after the used as required (i.e. prin), due to their long pharmacokinetic beginning of intercourse (if a time limit is required: before or T (time to maximum drug concentration in plasma follow within 15 seconds of the beginning of intercourse); (2) ejacu ing oral administration of the drug) they are likely to have a lation occurs in the absence of Sufficient erection to make slow onset of action. Side-effects common to this class of intercourse possible. The problem is not the result of pro drugs can be seen when used chronically. Behavioural longed abstinence from sexual activity.” therapy has been the other management tool but has not been 0005. Other definitions that have been used include clas very efficacious and has a high drop-out and relapse rate. sification on the following criteria: New, more effective therapies, are required. 0006 Related to the partner's orgasm 0007. Duration between penetration and ejaculation BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 0008 Number of thrusts and capacity for voluntary 0015. According to a first aspect, the invention provides control the use of a PDE5 inhibitor in the manufacture of a medica 0009 Psychological factors may be involved in PE, with ment for treating premature ejaculation in patients with nor relationship problems, anxiety, depression, prior sexual fail mal erectile function ure all playing a role. 0010. The estimated prevalence of PE is about 22-38% of DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION the male population; unlike MED it has no definite correlation with age. Taking an average prevalence of 30%, that would 0016. According to a first aspect, the invention provides make an estimated 24 million sufferers in the US (males aged the use of a PDE5 inhibitor in the manufacture of a medica 18-65 was 80 million in 1995). There is little data on preva ment for treating premature ejaculation in patients with nor lence by severity. It is estimated that the operational definition mal erectile function. of PE may apply to 5-10% of men, however, less than 0.2% (0017. By PDE5 inhibitors it is meanta compound which is present for treatment. The availability of an orally effective a potent and selective inhibitor of the coMP PDE5 isoen therapy is very likely to alter this situation. Zyme. 0011 Urologists currently form the bulk (59%) of physi 0018. The term “therapeutically effective amount’ as used cians treating PE; GPs form 33% of doctors treating the herein means that amount of active compound or pharmaceu condition. Sex therapists, behavioural therapists and counsel tical agent that elicits the biological or medicinal response in lors also treat patients with PE. Experts estimate that 50% of a tissue, system, animal or human that is being sought by a US 2008/O153841 A1 Jun. 26, 2008

researcher, veterinarian, medical doctor or other clinician, international patent application WO 98/49166; the pyrazolo which includes alleviation of the symptoms of the disease 4.3-dpyrimidin-7-ones disclosed in published international being treated. patent application WO99/54333; the pyrazolo 4,3-dipyrimi 0019. In accordance with the invention, patients with nor din-4-ones disclosed in EP-A-0995751; the pyrazolo 4,3-d mal erectile function are those who are capable of achieving pyrimidin-7-ones disclosed in published international patent an erection (without any medicament or medical device Such application WO 00/24745; the pyrazolo 4,3-dipyrimidin-4- as a vacuum pump) Sufficient for vaginal penetration and are ones disclosed in EP-A-0995750; the compounds disclosed able to maintain the erection until ejaculation. PE in these in published international application WO95/19978; the patients is typically primary PE. compounds disclosed in published international application 0020. In accordance with the invention, patients suffering WO 99/24433 and the compounds disclosed in published from PE but with normal erectile function experience persis international application WO93/07124. tent or recurrent ejaculation with minimal sexual stimulation 0031. The pyrazolo 4.3-dpyrimidin-7-ones disclosed in shortly after penetration and before the person wishes it. In published international application WO 01/27112; the pyra addition, the PE in these patients is not situational or second Zolo 4,3-dipyrimidin-7-ones disclosed in published interna ary to a known organic cause. Typically PE in these patients tional application WO 01/27113; the compounds disclosed in has been present since their first sexual experience. EP-A-1092718 and the compounds disclosed in EP-A- 0021. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, patients 1092719. with normal erectile function are those who attain a score of 0032. Preferred PDE5 inhibitors for use with the inven more than 22 (preferably more than 25) on the Erectile Func tion: tion Domain Questionnaire (see hereinafter). 0033 5-2-ethoxy-5-(4-methyl-1-piperazinylsulphonyl) 0022. Hereinafter the term “the PDE5 inhibitor” means phenyl-1-methyl-3-n-propyl-1,6-dihydro-7H-pyrazolo the PDE5 inhibitors for use with the invention. The term 4,3-dipyrimidin-7-one (sildenafil) also known as 1-3-(6, includes pharmaceutically acceptable salts, Solvates and 7-dihydro-1-methyl-7-oxo-3-propyl-1H-pyrazolo 4.3-d polymorphs of the PDE5 inhibitors for use with the invention. pyrimidin-5-yl)-4-ethoxyphenylsulphonyl-4- 0023 The suitability of the PDE5 inhibitor can be readily methylpiperazine (see EP-A-0463756); determined by evaluation of its potency and selectivity using 0034, 5-(2-ethoxy-5-morpholinoacetylphenyl)-1-methyl literature methods followed by evaluation of its toxicity, 3-n-propyl-1,6-dihydro-7H-pyrazolo 4,3-dipyrimidin-7- absorption, metabolism, pharmacokinetics etc., in accordance one (see EP-A-0526004); With standard pharmaceutical practice. 0035. 3-ethyl-5-5-(4-ethylpiperazin-1-ylsulphonyl)-2-n- 0024 Preferably, the PDE5 inhibitors have an IC50 propoxyphenyl-2-(pyridin-2-yl)methyl-2,6-dihydro-7H against the PDE5 enzyme of less than 100 nanomolar, more pyrazolo4.3-dpyrimidin-7-one (see WO98/49166); preferably, at less than 50 nanomolar. 0036 3-ethyl-5-5-(4-ethylpiperazin-1-ylsulphonyl)-2- 0025 IC50 values for the PDE5 inhibitors may be deter (2-methoxyethoxy)pyridin-3-yl)-2-(pyridin-2-yl)methyl mined using the PDE5 assay in the Test Methods Section 2,6-dihydro-7H-pyrazolo 4,3-dipyrimidin-7-one (see hereinafter. WO99/54333): 0026. Preferably the PDE5 inhibitors are selective for the 0037 (+)-3-ethyl-5-5-(4-ethylpiperazin-1-ylsulphonyl)- PDE5 enzyme. Preferably they have a selectivity for PDE5 2-(2-methoxy-1(R)-methylethoxy)pyridin-3-yl)-2-me over PDE3 of greater than 100 fold, more preferably greater thyl-2,6-dihydro-7H-pyrazolo4.3-dpyrimidin-7-one, than 300 fold. More preferably the PDE5 inhibitors have a also known as 3-ethyl-5-5-4-ethylpiperazin-1-ylsulpho selectivity over both PDE3 and PDE4 of greater than 100 nyl-2-((1R)-2-methoxy-1-methylethyloxy)pyridin-3- fold, more preferably greater than 300 fold. yl)-2-methyl-2,6-dihydro-7H-pyrazolo 4,3-dipyrimidin 0027 Selectivity ratios may readily be determined by the 7-one (see WO99/54333): skilled person, by ratio of corresponding IC50 values for the 0038 5-2-ethoxy-5-(4-ethylpiperazin-1-ylsulphonyl)py particular enzymes concerned. IC50 values for the PDE3 and ridin-3-yl)-3-ethyl-2-2-methoxyethyl-2,6-dihydro-7H PDE4 enzyme may be determined using established literature pyrazolo 4.3-dipyrimidin-7-one, also known as 1-6- methodology, see SA Ballard etal, Journal of Urology, 1998, ethoxy-5-3-ethyl-6,7-dihydro-2-(2-methoxyethyl)-7- vol. 159, pages 2164-2171. oxo-2H-pyrazolo 4.3-dpyrimidin-5-yl)-3- 0028 Preferably the PDE5 inhibitors have an IC50 against pyridylsulphonyl-4-ethylpiperazine (see WO 01/27113, PDE5 of less than 100 nM and a selectivity over PDE3 of Example 8): greater than 100 fold. 0039 5-2-iso-Butoxy-5-(4-ethylpiperazin-1-ylsulpho 0029. Examples of PDE5 inhibitors for use with the inven nyl)pyridin-3-yl)-3-ethyl-2-(1-methylpiperidin-4-yl)-2,6- tion are: dihydro-7H-pyrazolo 4,3-dipyrimidin-7-one (see WO 0030 The pyrazolo 4.3-dpyrimidin-7-ones disclosed in 01/27113, Example 15): EP-A-0463756; the pyrazolo 4,3-dipyrimidin-7-ones dis 0040 5-2-Ethoxy-5-(4-ethylpiperazin-1-ylsulphonyl) closed in EP-A-0526004; the pyrazolo 4,3-dipyrimidin-7- pyridin-3-yl)-3-ethyl-2-phenyl-2,6-dihydro-7H-pyrazolo ones disclosed in published international patent application 4,3-dipyrimidin-7-one (see WO 01/27113, Example 66); WO 93/06104; the isomeric pyrazolo 3,4-dipyrimidin-4- 0041 5-(5-Acetyl-2-propoxy-3-pyridinyl)-3-ethyl-2-(1- ones disclosed in published international patent application isopropyl-3-azetidinyl)-2,6-dihydro-7H-pyrazolo4.3-d WO 93/07149; the quinazolin-4-ones disclosed in published pyrimidin-7-one (see WO 01/27112. Example 124); international patent application WO 93/12095; the pyrido3. 0042 5-(5-Acetyl-2-butoxy-3-pyridinyl)-3-ethyl-2-(1- 2-dipyrimidin-4-ones disclosed in published international ethyl-3-azetidinyl)-2,6-dihydro-7H-pyrazolo 4,3-dipyri patent application WO94/05661; the purin-6-ones disclosed midin-7-one (see WO 01/27112, Example 132): in published international patent application WO94/00453; 0043 (6R,12aR)-2,3,6,7,12,12a-hexahydro-2-methyl-6- the pyrazolo4.3-dpyrimidin-7-ones disclosed in published (3.4-methylenedioxyphenyl)-pyrazino 2', 1':6.1 pyrido3. US 2008/O153841 A1 Jun. 26, 2008

4-bindole-1,4-dione (IC-351), i.e. the compound of methyl-7-oxo-3-propyl-1H-pyrazolo4.3-dpyrimidin-5-yl)- examples 78 and 95 of published international application 4-ethoxyphenylsulphonyl-4-methylpiperazine) and WO95/19978, as well as the compound of examples 1,3,7 pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. Sildenafil citrate is and 8: a preferred salt. 0044 2-2-ethoxy-5-(4-ethyl-piperazin-1-yl-1-sulpho 0056 Oral bioavailablity refers to the proportion of an nyl)-phenyl-5-methyl-7-propyl-3H-imidazo[5,1-f1.2, orally administered drug that reaches the systemic circula 4triazin-4-one (vardenafil) also known as 1-3-(3,4-dihy tion. The factors that determine oral bioavailability of a drug dro-5-methyl-4-oxo-7-propylimidazo[5,1-f-as-triazin-2- are dissolution, membrane permeability and metabolic stabil yl)-4-ethoxyphenylsulphonyl-4-ethylpiperazine, i.e. the ity. Typically, a screening cascade of firstly in vitro and then compound of examples 20, 19, 337 and 336 of published in vivo techniques is used to determine oral bioavailablity. international application WO99/24433; and 0057 Dissolution, the solubilisation of the drug by the 0045 the compound of example 11 of published interna aqueous contents of the gastro-intestinal tract (GIT), can be tional application WO93/07124 (EISAI); and predicted from in vitro solubility experiments conducted at 0046 compounds 3 and 14 from Rotella D P. J. Med. appropriate pH to mimic the GIT. Preferably the PDE5 inhibi Chem., 2000, 43, 1257. tors have a minimum solubility of 50 mcg/ml. Solubility can 0047 Still further PDE5 inhibitors for use with the inven be determined by standard procedures known in the art such tion include: 4-bromo-5-(pyridylmethylamino)-6-3-(4- as described in Adv. Drug Deliv. Rev. 23, 3-25, 1997. chlorophenyl)-propoxy-3(2H)pyrdazinone; 1-4-(1,3-ben 0.058 Membrane permeability refers to the passage of a Zodioxol-5-ylmethyl)amiono-6-chloro-2-quinozolinyl-4- compound through the cells of the GIT. Lipophilicity is a key piperidine-carboxylic acid, monosodium salt; (+)-cis-5,6a, 7. property in predicting this and is defined by in vitro Log D7 9,9.9a-hexahydro-2-4-(trifluoromethyl)-phenylmethyl-5- measurements using organic solvents and buffer. Preferably methyl-cyclopent-4.5imidazo[2.1-bpurin-4(3H)one; the PDE5 inhibitors have a Log D, of -2 to +4, more pref furazlocillin; cis-2-hexyl-5-methyl-3,4,5,6a,7,8,9,9a-oc erably -1 to +3. The log D can be determined by standard tahydrocyclopent4.5-imidazo[2.1-bpurin-4-one; 3-acetyl procedures known in the art such as described in J. Pharm. 1-(2-chlorobenzyl)-2-propylindole-6-carboxylate: 3-acetyl Pharmacol. 1990, 42:144. 1-(2-chlorobenzyl)-2-propylindole-6-carboxylate: 4-bromo 0059 Cell monolayer assays such as CaCO, add substan 5-(3-pyridylmethylamino)-6-(3-(4-chlorophenyl)propoxy)- tially to prediction of favourable membrane permeability in 3-(2H)pyridazinone; I-methyl-5(5-morpholinoacetyl-2-n- the presence of efflux transporters such as p-glycoprotein, propoxyphenyl)-3-n-propyl-1,6-dihydro-7H-pyrazolo(4.3- so-called caco-2 flux. Preferably, the PDE5 inhibitors have a d)pyrimidin-7-one; 1-4-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-ylmethyl) caco-2 flux of greater than 2x10 cms, more preferably amino-6-chloro-2-quinazolinyl-4-piperidinecarboxylic greater than 5x10 cms'. The caco flux value can be deter acid, monosodium salt; Pharmaprojects No. 4516 (Glaxo mined by standard procedures known in the art such as Wellcome); Pharmaprojects No. 5051 (Bayer); Phar described in J. Pharm. Sci, 1990, 79, 595-600. maprojects No. 5064 (Kyowa Hakko: see WO 96/26940): 0060 Metabolic stability addresses the ability of the GIT Pharmaprojects No. 5069 (Schering Plough); GF-196960 or the liver to metabolise compounds during the absorption (GlaxoWellcome); E-8010 and E-4010 (Eisai); Bay-38-3045 process: the first pass effect. Assay systems such as & 38-9456 (Bayer) and Sch-51866. microsomes, hepatocytes etc are predictive of metabolic 0048. The contents of the published patent applications liability. Preferably the PDE5 inhibitors show metabolic sta and journal articles and in particular the general formulae of bility in the assay system that is commensurate with a hepatic the therapeutically active compounds of the claims and exem extraction of less then 0.5. Examples of assay systems and plified compounds therein are incorporated herein in their data manipulation are described in Curr. Opin. Drug Disc. entirety by reference thereto. Devel., 201, 4,36-44, Drug Met. Disp., 2000, 28, 1518-1523. 0049 More preferred PDE5 inhibitors for use with the 0061 Because of the interplay of the above processes fur invention are selected from the group: ther support that a drug will be orally bioavailable in humans 0050 5-2-ethoxy-5-(4-methyl-1-piperazinylsulphonyl) can be gained by in Vivo experiments in animals. Absolute phenyl-1-methyl-3-n-propyl-1,6-dihydro-7H-pyrazolo bioavailability is determined in these studies by administer 4.3-dpyrimidin-7-one (sildenafil); ing the compound separately or in mixtures by the oral route. 0051 (6R,12aR)-2,3,6,7,12,12a-hexahydro-2-methyl-6- For absolute determinations (% absorbed) the intravenous (3.4-methylenedioxyphenyl)-pyrazino 2', 1:6,1pyrido3. route is also employed. Examples of the assessment of oral 4-bindole-1,4-dione (IC-351); bioavailability in animals can be found in Drug Met. Disp., 0052 2-2-ethoxy-5-(4-ethyl-piperazin-1-yl-1-sulpho 2001, 29, 82-87; J. MedChem, 1997, 40,827-829, Drug Met. nyl)-phenyl-5-methyl-7-propyl-3H-imidazo[5,1-f1.2, Disp., 1999, 27, 221-226. 4triazin-4-one (vardenafil); 0062. The PDE5 inhibitors can be administered alone but 0053 5-2-ethoxy-5-(4-ethylpiperazin-1-ylsulphonyl)py will generally be administered in admixture with a suitable ridin-3-yl)-3-ethyl-2-2-methoxyethyl-2,6-dihydro-7H pharmaceutical excipient, diluent or carrier selected with pyrazolo 4,3-dipyrimidin-7-one; and regard to the intended route of administration and standard 0054 5-(5-acetyl-2-butoxy-3-pyridinyl)-3-ethyl-2-(1- pharmaceutical practice. ethyl-3-azetidinyl)-2,6-dihydro-7H-pyrazolo 4,3-dipyri 0063 For example, the PDE5 inhibitors can be adminis midin-7-one and pharmaceutically acceptable salts tered orally, buccally or sublingually in the form of tablets, thereof. capsules, multi-particulates, gels, films, ovules, elixirs, solu 0055. A particularly preferred PDE5 inhibitor is 5-2- tions or Suspensions, which may contain flavouring or colour ethoxy-5-(4-methyl-1-piperazinylsulphonyl)phenyl-1-me ing agents, for immediate-, delayed-, modified-, Sustained thyl-3-n-propyl-1,6-dihydro-7H-pyrazolo 4,3-dipyrimidin pulsed- or controlled-release applications. The PDE5 inhibi 7-one (sildenafil) (also known as 1-3-(6,7-dihydro-1- tors may also be administered as fast-dispersing or fast-dis US 2008/O153841 A1 Jun. 26, 2008

Solving dosage forms or in the form of a high energy disper crospovidone, diascorbic acid, ethyl acrylate, ethyl cellulose, sion or as coated particles. Suitable formulations may be in gelatin, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, magnesium Stearate, coated or uncoated form, as desired. mannitol, methyl methacrylate, mint flavouring, polyethyl 0064. Such solid pharmaceutical compositions, for ene glycol, fumed silica, silicon dioxide, Sodium starch gly example, tablets, may contain excipients such as microcrys colate, sodium stearyl fumarate, sorbitol, xylitol. The terms talline cellulose, lactose, Sodium citrate, calcium carbonate, dispersing or dissolving as used hereinto describe FDDFs are dibasic calcium phosphate, glycine and starch (preferably dependent upon the solubility of the drug Substance used i.e. corn, potato or tapioca starch), disintegrants such as sodium where the drug Substance is insoluble a fast dispersing dosage starch glycollate, croScarmellose sodium and certain com form can be prepared and where the drug Substance is soluble plex silicates, and granulation binders such as polyvinylpyr a fast dissolving dosage form can be prepared. rolidone, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), hydrox 0072. The PDE5 inhibitors can also be administered ypropylcellulose (HPC). Sucrose, gelatin and acacia. parenterally, for example, intracavernously, intravenously, Additionally, lubricating agents such as magnesium Stearate, intra-arterially, intraperitoneally, intrathecally, intraventricu Stearic acid, glyceryl behenate and talc may be included. larly, intraurethrally, intrasternally, intracranially, intramus cularly or Subcutaneously, or they may be administered by EXAMPLES infusion or needleless injection techniques. For Such 0065. The following formulation examples are illustrative parenteral administration they are best used in the form of a sterile aqueous Solution which may contain other Substances, only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. for example, enough salts or glucose to make the Solution Active ingredient means a PDE5 inhibitor. isotonic with blood. The aqueous solutions should be suitably Formulation 1: buffered (preferably to a pH of from 3 to 9), if necessary. The preparation of Suitable parenteral formulations under sterile 0066. A tablet is prepared using the following ingredients: conditions is readily accomplished by standard pharmaceuti Active ingredient (50mg) is blended with cellulose (micro cal techniques well-known to those skilled in the art. crystalline), silicon dioxide, Stearic acid (fumed) and the mix 0073. The following dosage levels and other dosage levels ture is compressed to form tablets. herein are for the average human Subject having a weight range of about 65 to 70 kg. The skilled person will readily be Formulation 2: able to determine the dosage levels required for a subject 0067. An intravenous formulation may be prepared by whose weightfalls outside this range, such as children and the combining active ingredient (100 mg) with isotonic saline elderly. (1000 ml). (0074 The dosage of the PDE5 inhibitor in such formula 0068. The tablets are manufactured by a standard process, tions will depend on its potency, but can be expected to be in for example, direct compression or a wet or dry granulation the range of from 1 to 500 mg for administration up to three process. The tablet cores may be coated with appropriate times a day. In the case of sildenafil, a preferred dose is in the OVerCOatS. range 10 to 100 mg (e.g. 10, 25, 50 and 100 mg) which can be 0069 Solid compositions of a similar type may also be administered once, twice or three times a day (preferably employed as fillers in gelatin or HPMC capsules. Preferred once). However the precise dose will be as determined by the excipients in this regard include lactose, starch, a cellulose, prescribing physician and will depend on the age and weight milk Sugar or high molecular weight polyethylene glycols. of the patient and severity of the symptoms. For aqueous suspensions and/or elixirs, the PDE5 inhibitors 0075 For oral and parenteral administration to human may be combined with various Sweetening or flavouring patients, the daily dosage level of the PDE5 inhibitors will agents, colouring matter or dyes, with emulsifying and/or usually be from to 5 to 500 mg/kg (in single or divided doses). Suspending agents and with diluents such as water, ethanol, (0076. Thus tablets or capsules of the PDE5 inhibitors may propylene glycol and glycerin, and combinations thereof. contain from 5 mg to 250 mg (preferably 10 to 100 mg) of 0070 Modified release and pulsatile release dosage forms active compound for administration singly or two or more at may contain excipients such as those detailed for immediate a time, as appropriate. The physician in any event will deter release dosage forms together with additional excipients that mine the actual dosage which will be most suitable for any act as release rate modifiers, these being coated on and/or individual patient and it will vary with the age, weight and included in the body of the device. Release rate modifiers response of the particular patient. The above dosages are include, but are not exclusively limited to, hydroxypropylm exemplary of the average case. There can, of course, be indi ethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, sodium carboxymethylcel vidual instances where higher or lower dosage ranges are lulose, ethyl cellulose, cellulose acetate, polyethylene oxide, merited and such are within the scope of this invention. The Xanthan gum, Carbomer, ammonio methacrylate copolymer, skilled person will appreciate that the PDE5 inhibitors may be hydrogenated castor oil, carnauba wax, paraffin wax, cellu taken as a single dose as needed or desired (i.e. prin). It is to be lose acetate phthalate, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose phtha appreciated that all references herein to treatment include late, methacrylic acid copolymer and mixtures thereof. Modi acute treatment (taken as required) and chronic treatment fied release and pulsatile release dosage forms may contain (longer term continuous treatment). one or a combination of release rate modifying excipients. 0077. The PDE5 inhibitors can also be administered intra Release rate modifying excipients may be present both within nasally or by inhalation and are conveniently delivered in the the dosage form i.e. within the matrix, and/or on the dosage form of a dry powder inhaler oran aerosol spray presentation form, i.e. upon the Surface or coating. from a pressurised container, pump, spray, atomiser or nebu 0071 Fast dispersing or dissolving dosage formulations liser, with or without the use of a Suitable propellant, e.g. (FDDFs) may contain the following ingredients: aspartame, dichlorodifluoromethane, trichlorofluoromethane, dichlo acesulfame potassium, citric acid, croScarmellose Sodium, rotetrafluoroethane, a hydrofluoroalkane Such as 1,1,1,2-tet US 2008/O153841 A1 Jun. 26, 2008

rafluoroethane (HFA 134A trade mark) or 1,1,1,2,3,3,3- I0085 1) one or more naturally occurring or synthetic pros heptafluoropropane (HFA 227EA trade mark), carbon taglandins or esters thereof. Suitable prostaglandins for use dioxide or other Suitable gas. In the case of a pressurised herein include compounds such as alprostadil, prostaglan aerosol, the dosage unit may be determined by providing a din E, prostaglandin E. 13.14-dihydroprostaglandin E, valve to deliver a metered amount. The pressurised container, prostaglandin E, eprostinol, natural synthetic and semi pump, spray, atomiser or nebuliser may contain a solution or synthetic prostaglandins and derivatives thereof including Suspension of the active compound, e.g. using a mixture of those described in WO-00033825 and/or U.S. Pat. No. ethanol and the propellant as the solvent, which may addi 6,037.346 issued on 14 Mar. 2000 all incorporated herein tionally contain a lubricant, e.g. Sorbitan trioleate. Capsules by reference, PGE, PGE, PGA, PGB, PGF.C., 19-hy and cartridges (made, for example, from gelatin) for use in an droxy PGA 19-hydroxy-PGB, PGE PGB, 19-hy inhaler or insufflator may be formulated to contain a powder droxy-PGA. 19-hydroxy-PGB, PGEC, carboprost mix of the PDE5 inhibitor and a suitable powder base such as tromethamine dinoprost, tromethamine, dinoprostone, lactose or starch. lipo prost, gemeprost, metenoprost, Sulprostune, tiaprost 0078 Aerosol or dry powder formulations are preferably and moxisylate; arranged so that each metered dose or "puff contains from 1 0086 2) one or more C.-adrenergic receptor antagonists ug to 50 mg of a PDE5 inhibitor for delivery to the patient. (also known as C.-adrenoceptor blockers, C.-receptor block The overall daily dose with an aerosol will be in the range of ers or C-blockers); Suitable C-adrenergic receptor antago from 1 Jug to 50 mg which may be administered in a single nists include: phentolamine, praZosin, phentolamine dose or, more usually, in divided doses throughout the day. mesylate, traZodone, alfuZosin, indoramin, naftopidil, tam Sulosin, phenoxybenzamine, rauwolfa alkaloids, Recordati 0079 Alternatively, the PDE5 inhibitors can be adminis 15/2739, SNAP 1069, SNAP 5089, RS17053, SL 89.0591, tered in the form of a Suppository or pessary, or they may be doxazosin, teraZosin and abanoquil; Suitable C2-adrenergic applied topically in the form of a gel, hydrogel, lotion, Solu receptor antagonists include dibenamine, tolaZoline, tri tion, cream, ointment or dusting powder. The PDE5 inhibitors maZosin, efaroxan, yohimbine, idazoxan clonidine and may also be dermally or transdermally administered, for dibenamine; Suitable non-selective C.-adrenergic receptor example, by the use of a skin patch. They may also be admin antagonists include dapiprazole; further C.-adrenergic istered by the pulmonary or rectal routes. receptor antagonists are described in PCT application 0080. For application topically to the skin, the PDE5 WO99/30697 published on 14 Jun. 1998 and U.S. Pat. Nos. inhibitors can beformulated as a Suitable ointment containing 4,188,390; 4,026,894; 3,511,836; 4,315,007: 3,527,761; the active compound Suspended or dissolved in, for example, 3,997,666: 2,503,059; 4,703,063; 3,381,009; 4,252,721 a mixture with one or more of the following: mineral oil, liquid petrolatum, white petrolatum, propylene glycol, poly and 2,599,000 each of which is incorporated herein by oxyethylene polyoxypropylene compound, emulsifying wax reference; I0087 3) one or more vasodilator agents; suitable vasodi and water. Alternatively, they can be formulated as a suitable lator agents for use herein include nimodepine, pinacidil, lotion or cream, Suspended or dissolved in, for example, a cyclandelate, isoXSuprine, chloroprumazine, halo peridol, mixture of one or more of the following: mineral oil, sorbitan monostearate, a polyethylene glycol, liquid paraffin, polysor Rec 15/2739 and trazodone; bate 60, cetyl esters wax, cetearyl alcohol, 2-octyldodecanol, I0088 4) one or more ergot alkoloids; suitable ergot alka loids are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,037,346 issued on 14 benzyl alcohol and water. Mar. 2000 and include acetergamine, brazergoline, bro I0081. The PDE5 inhibitors may also be used in combina merguride, cianergoline, delorgotrile, disulergine, ergono tion with a cyclodextrin. Cyclodextrins are known to form vine maleate, ergotamine tartrate, etisulergine, lergotrile, inclusion and non-inclusion complexes with drug molecules. lysergide, mesulergine, metergoline, metergotamine, Formation of a drug-cyclodextrin complex may modify the nicergoline, pergolide, propisergide, proterguride, tergu solubility, dissolution rate, bioavailability and/or stability property of a drug molecule. Drug-cyclodextrin complexes ride; are generally useful for most dosage forms and administra I0089 5) one or more angiotensin receptor antagonists tion routes. As an alternative to direct complexation with the Such as losartan; drug the cyclodextrin may be used as an auxiliary additive, 0090 6) one or more calcium channel blockers such as e.g. as a carrier, diluent or solubiliser. Alpha-, beta- and amlodipine; gamma-cyclodextrins are most commonly used and Suitable 0091 7) one or more antagonists of endothelin receptors examples are described in WO-A-91/11 172, WO-A-94/ and inhibitors or endothelin-converting enzyme; O2518 and WO-A-98/55148. 0092) 8) one or more cholesterol lowering agents such as 0082 Generally, in humans, oral administration of the statins (e.g. atorvastatin/Lipitor—trade mark) and fibrates; PDE5 inhibitors is the preferred route, being the most conve 0093 9) one or more acetylcholinesterase inhibitors such nient. In circumstances where the recipient Suffers from a as donezipil; Swallowing disorder or from impairment of drug absorption 0094) 10) one or more estrogen receptor modulators and/ after oral administration, the drug may be administered or estrogen agonists and/or estrogen antagonists, prefer parenterally, Sublingually or buccally. ably raloxifene or lasofoxifene, (-)-cis-6-phenyl-5-4-(2- 0083. A further preferred route is topically via the skin, pyrrolidin-1-yl-ethoxy)-phenyl-5,6,7,8- preferably locally to the male genitalia. tetrahydronaphthalene-2-ol and pharmaceutically 0084. In an embodiment of the invention, the PDE5 inhibi acceptable salts thereofthe preparation of which is detailed tors may also be combined with one or more additional active in WO 96/21656; agents for treating PE in patients with normal erectile func (0095) 11) one or more further PDE inhibitors, particularly tion, the active agent being selected from the following list: a PDE 2, 7 or 8 inhibitor, preferably a PDE2 inhibitor, said US 2008/O153841 A1 Jun. 26, 2008

inhibitors preferably having an IC50 against the respective 0111 Preferred additional active agents for combination enzyme of less than 100 nM; with the PDE5 inhibitors (preferably sildenafil. Vardenafil. 0096 12) one or more of a NPY (neuropeptide Y) inhibi IC-351, 5-2-ethoxy-5-(4-ethylpiperazin-1-ylsulphonyl)py tor, more particularly NPY1 or NPY5 inhibitor, preferably ridin-3-yl)-3-ethyl-2-2-methoxyethyl-2,6-dihydro-7H NPY1 inhibitor, preferably said NPY inhibitors (including pyrazolo 4,3-dipyrimidin-7-one and 5-(5-acetyl-2-butoxy-3- NPYY1 and NPYY5) having an IC50 of less than 100 nM, pyridinyl)-3-ethyl-2-(1-ethyl-3-azetidinyl)-2,6-dihydro-7H more preferably less than 50 nM; an assay for identifying pyrazolo 4,3-dipyrimidin-7-one) for use with the invention NPY inhibitors is presented in WO-A-98/52890 (see page are selected from the list: 96, lines 2 to 28); 0112 a) one or more C.-adrenergic receptor antagonists 0097. 13) one or more of vasoactive intestinal protein (preferably praZosin, traZodone, alfuzosin, indoramin, (VIP), VIP mimetic, VIP analogue, more particularly tamsulosin, phenoxybenzamine, yohimbine, doxazosin, mediated by one or more of the VIP receptor subtypes terazosin, clonidine, Recordati 15/2739, SNAP 1069, VPAC1, VPAC or PACAP (pituitory adenylate cyclase SNAP 5089 and RS17053); activating peptide), one or more of a VIP receptor agonist 0113 b) one or more 5-HTantagonist (preferably batano or a VIP analogue (eg Ro-125-1553) or a VIP fragment, pride, granisetron, ondansetron, tropistron or MDL one or more of a C-adrenoceptor antagonist with VIP com 73147EF): bination (eg invicorp, aviptadil); 0114 c) one or more of a modulator of transporters for 0098. 14) one or more of a melanocortin receptoragonist noradrenaline, dopamine and/or serotonin, such as bupro or modulator or melanocortin enhancer, Such as melanotan pion and GW-320659; and II, PT-14, PT-141 or compounds claimed in 0115 d) an anti-depressant (preferably sertraline, fluoxet WO-09964002, WO-00074679, WO-09955679, ine, fluvoxamine, paroxetine, citalopram, Venlafaxine, clo WO-00105401, WO-00058361, WO-00114879, mipramine). WO-00113112, WO-099.54358: 0116 Particularly preferred additional active agents for 0099. 15) one or more 5-HT, antagonist (preferably combination with sildenafil for use with the invention are batanopride, granisetron, ondansetron, tropistron or MDL selected from the list: sertraline, fluoxetine, paroxetine, clo 73147EF): mipramine, ondansetron, phenoxybenzamine, alfuZosin and 0100 16) one or more 5-HTagonist (preferably cisapride teraZosin. and D-lysergic acid diethylamide); 0117 Particularly preferred additional active agents for 01.01 17) one or more of testosterone, a testosterone combination with 5-2-ethoxy-5-(4-ethylpiperazin-1-ylsul replacement agent (inc dehydroandrostendione), testoster phonyl)pyridin-3-yl)-3-ethyl-2-[2-methoxyethyl-2,6-dihy none (Tostrelle), dihydrotestosterone or a testosterone dro-7H-pyrazolo 4,3-dipyrimidin-7-one for use with the implant; invention are selected from the list: sertraline, fluoxetine, paroxetine, clomipramine, ondansetron, phenoxybenzamine, 0102 18) one or more of estradiol, estrogen, estrogen and alfuZosin and teraZosin. medroxyprogesterone or medroxyprogesterone acetate 0118 Particularly preferred additional active agents for (MPA) (i.e. as a combination), or estrogen and methyl combination with 5-(5-acetyl-2-butoxy-3-pyridinyl)-3- testosterone hormone replacement therapy agent (e.g. HRT ethyl-2-(1-ethyl-3-azetidinyl)-2,6-dihydro-7H-pyrazolo4. especially Premarin, Cenestin, Oestrofeminal, Equin, 3-dipyrimidin-7-one for use with the invention are selected Estrace, Estrofem, Elleste Solo, Estring, Eastraderm TTS, from the list: Sertraline, fluoxetine, paroxetine, clomi Eastraderm Matrix, Dermestril, Premphase, Preempro, pramine, ondansetron, phenoxybenzamine, alfuzosin and Prempak, Premique, Estratest, Estratest HS, Tibolone); teraZosin. 0103) 19) one or more of a modulator of transporters for 0119. It is to be appreciated that all references herein to noradrenaline, dopamine and/or serotonin, such as bupro treatment include curative, palliative and prophylactic treat pion and GW-320659; ment. 0104 20) one or more of a purinergic receptor agonist I0120 If a combination of active agents are administered, and/or modulator, then they may be administered simultaneously, separately or 0105 21) one or more of a neurokinin (NK) receptor sequentially. antagonist, including those described in WO-09964008; I0121. It will be appreciated that the invention provides 0106 22) one or more of an opioid receptor agonist, basis for the following further aspects and that the embodi antagonist or modulator, ments specified hereinabove for the first aspect extend to 0107 23) one or more of a modulator of cannabinoid these aspects: receptors; 0.122 i) a PDE5 inhibitor for treating premature ejacula 0108 24) gabapentene; tion in patients with normal erectile function; 0109 25) one or more angiotensin-converting enzyme I0123 ii) a pharmaceutical combination for treating pre (ACE) inhibitors, e.g. quinapril; and mature ejaculation in patients with normal erectile function 0110 26) one or more anti-depressants; for example selec comprising a PDE5 inhibitor and an additional active agent tive serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (sertraline, fluoxetine, as hereinabove defined; fluvoxamine, paroxetine, citalopram, Venlafaxine, mir 0.124 iii) the use of a pharmaceutical combination for the tazapine, nefazodone, traZodone); tricyclic antidepressants manufacture of a medicament for the treatment of prema (TCA, associated with cardiovascular side effects) clomi ture ejaculation in patients with normal erectile function pramine, desipramine, imipramine, amitriptyline, doxepin, comprising a PDE5 inhibitor and an additional active agent amoxapine, maprotiline, nortriptyline, protriptyline, trimi as hereinabove defined; pramine, bupropion); and monoamine oxidase inhibitors 0.125 iv) a kit for treating premature ejaculation in patients pheneizine, tranylcypromine. with normal erectile function, the kit comprising: a) a first US 2008/O153841 A1 Jun. 26, 2008

pharmaceutical composition comprising a PDE5 inhibitor; example “FERTICARE(R) personal” (see www.multicept. b) a second composition comprising an additional active com/ferticare.html, Multicept A/S, Lyngse Alle 3, agent as hereinabove defined; and c) a container for the first 2970Horsholm, Denmark). and second compositions; 0126 v) the use of a kit in the manufacture of a medica 0.138 Components of the Erectile Function Domain Ques ment for treating premature ejaculation in patients with tionnaire. normal erectile function, the kit comprising: a) a first phar maceutical composition comprising a PDE5 inhibitor; b) a second composition comprising an additional active agent QUESTION RESPONSE OPTIONS as hereinabove defined; and c) a container for the first and second compositions; Q1: In he past 4 weeks, how often O = No sexual activity were you able to get an erection 1 = Almost never never 0127 vi) a method of treating a patient suffering from during sexual activity? 2 = A few times (much premature ejaculation with normal erectile function com Q2: In the past 4 weeks, when you less than half the time) prising treating said patient with an effective amount of a had erections with sexual stimulation, 3 = Sometimes (about how often were your erections hard half the time) PDE5 inhibitor; and enough for penetration? 4 = Most times (much 0128 vii) a method of treating a patient suffering from more than half the time) premature ejaculation with normal erectile function com 5 = Almost always always prising treating said patient with pharmaceutical combina Q3: In the past 4 weeks, when you O = Did not attempt attempted sexual intercourse, how intercourse tion comprising a PDE5 inhibitor and an additional active often were you able to penetrate 1 = Almost never never agent as hereinabove defined. (enter) your partner? 2 = A few times (much 0129. The following study was conducted to investigate Q4: In the past 4 weeks, during less than half the time) the use of PDE5 inhibitors for the treatment of PE in patients sexual intercourse, how often were 3 = Sometimes (about you able to maintain your erection half the time) with normal erectile function. after you had penetrated (entered) 4 = Most times (much 0130. The study was conducted using sildenafil (Via your partner? more than half the graR), however it will be appreciated that the study may be time) 5 = Almost always always conducted with other PDE5 inhibitors, for example one or Q5: In the past 4 weeks, during O = Did not attempt more of the preferred PDE5 inhibitors listed hereinabove. sexual intercourse, how difficult intercourse 0131 The study comprised a phase II, placebo-controlled was it to maintain your erection to 1 = Extremely difficult study to assess the efficacy of oral sildenafil (ViagraTM) one completion of intercourse? 2 = Very difficult 3 = difficult hour prior to sexual intercourse in patients with premature 4 = Slightly difficult ejaculation but with normal erectile function (i.e. patients 5 = Not difficult scoring greater than 22 on the Erectile Function Domain Q15: In the past 4 weeks, how do you 1 = Very low Questionnaire (see hereinafter)) rate your confidence that you could 2 = Low get and keep an erection? 3 = Moderate 0132) The following efficacy variables (endpoints) were 4 = High used to evaluate the study. 5 = Very high 0.133 i) The Intra-vaginal Ejaculatory Latency Time (IELT). This formed the primary efficacy variable. The change in IELT from baseline of the Viagra group was compared to that of the placebo group. IELT was deter Assay mined by stopwatch and was recorded by the patient via a diary. The patient recorded the IELT for each sexual event. I0139 PDE potency values referred to herein are deter Patients were asked to collect data on IELT for the first mined by the following assays. intra-vaginal penetration during any single event. In addi 0140 Preferred PDE compounds suitable for use in accor tion, the diary captured information on dosing and corre dance with the present invention are potent and selective sponding sexual intercourse attempts, and was completed PDE5 inhibitors. In vitro PDE inhibitory activities against when the patient had taken study medication and/or cyclic guanosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cGMP) and cyclic engaged in sexual activity. adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP) phosphodiesterases 0134) ii) Index of Premature Ejaculation (IPE). This can be determined by measurement of their ICso values (the index recorded the effects of the patient's sexual problems concentration of compound required for 50% inhibition of on his sex life. This formed a secondary efficacy endpoint enzyme activity). of the study. 0135 iii) Sexual Quality of Life (Male) questionnaire 0.141. The required PDE enzymes can be isolated from a (SQoI-M)—This questionnaire assesses the quality of sex variety of Sources, including human corpus cavemosum, life prior to and after treatment. This formed a secondary human and rabbit platelets, human cardiac ventricle, human efficacy endpoint of the study. skeletal muscle and bovine retina, essentially by the method 0.136 iv) Global Efficacy Question. This question of W. J. Thompson and M. M. Appleman (Biochem., 1971, recorded the improvement in the overall level of satisfac 10, 311). In particular, the coMP-specific PDE (PDE5) and tion during sexual intercourse with the treatment. This the coMP-inhibited cAMP PDE (PDE3) can be obtained formed a secondary efficacy endpoint of the study. from human corpus cavernosum tissue, human platelets or 0.137 v) Time to ejaculation using Penile vibratory stimu rabbit platelets; the coMP-stimulated PDE (PDE2) was lation—A number of patients were asked to record their obtained from human corpus cavemosum, the calcium/calm time to ejaculation using penile vibratory stimulation. This odulin (Ca? CAM)-dependent PDE (PDE1) from human car technique is a reliable method for measuring ejaculation diac ventricle; the cAMP-specific PDE (PDE4) from human latency. Penile vibrators are available commercially, for skeletal muscle; and the photoreceptor PDE (PDE6) from US 2008/O153841 A1 Jun. 26, 2008

bovine retina. Phosphodiesterases 7-11 can be generated 3. The method according to either claim 1 wherein the from full length human recombinant clones transfected into PDE5 inhibitor has an IC50 against the PDE5 enzyme of less SF9 cells. than 100 nanomolar. 0142 Assays can be performed either using a modification 4. The method according to claim 3 wherein the PDE5 of the “batch' method of W. J. Thompson et al. (Biochem. inhibitor has a selectivity over PDE3 of greater than 100 fold. 1979, 18, 5228) or using a scintillation proximity assay for the 5. The method according to claim 4 wherein the PDE5 inhibitor has a selectivity over both PDE3 and PDE4 of direct detection of AMP/GMP using a modification of the greater than 100 fold. protocol described by Amersham pic under product code 6. The method according to claim 5 wherein the PDE5 TRKQ7090/7100. In summary, the effect of PDE inhibitors inhibitor has an IC50 against PDE5 of less than 100 nMand was investigated by assaying a fixed amount of enzyme in the a selectivity over PDE3 of greater than 100 fold. presence of varying inhibitor concentrations and low Sub 7. The method according to claim 1 wherein the PDE5 strate, (cGMP or cAMP in a 3:1 ratio unlabelled to H inhibitor is selected from the group: labeled at a conc ~1/3 K.) Such that ICsos K. The final assay 5-2-ethoxy-5-(4-methyl-1-piperazinylsulphonyl)phe volume was made up to 100 ul with assay buffer 20 mM nyl-1-methyl-3-n-propyl-1,6-dihydro-7H-pyrazolo 4.3-d Tris-HCl pH 7.4, 5 mM MgCl, 1 mg/ml bovine serum albu pyrimidin-7-one (sildenafil); min. Reactions were initiated with enzyme, incubated for (6R,12aR)-2,3,6,7,12,12a-hexahydro-2-methyl-6-(3,4- 30-60 min at 30° C. to give <30% substrate turnover and methylenedioxyphenyl)-pyrazino 2', 1':6.1 pyrido 3,4-bin terminated with 50 ul yttrium silicate SPA beads (containing dole-1,4-dione (IC-351); 3 mM of the respective unlabelled cyclic nucleotide for PDEs 2-2-ethoxy-5-(4-ethyl-piperazin-1-yl-l-Sulphonyl)-phe 9 and 11). Plates were re-sealed and shaken for 20 min, after nyl-5-methyl-7-propyl-3H-imidazo[5, 1-f1.2.4 triazin-4- which the beads were allowed to settle for 30 min in the dark one (vardenafil); and then counted on a TopCount plate reader (Packard, Meri 5-2-ethoxy-5-(4-ethylpiperazin-1-ylsulphonyl)pyridin den, Conn.) Radioactivity units were converted to % activity 3-yl)-3-ethyl-2-[2-methoxyethyl-2,6-dihydro-7H-pyrazolo 4.3-dpyrimidin-7-one; and of an uninhibited control (100%), plotted against inhibitor 5-(5-acetyl-2-butoxy-3-pyridinyl)-3-ethyl-2-(1-ethyl-3- concentration and inhibitor ICs values obtained using the azetidinyl)-2,6-dihydro-7H-pyrazolo 4.3-dpyrimidin-7-one Fit Curve Microsoft Excel extension. and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. 0143 Although the foregoing invention has been 8. The method according to claim 1 wherein the inhibitor is described in some detail for purposes of illustration, it will be administered orally. readily apparent to one skilled in the art that changes and 9. The method according to claim 8 wherein the daily modifications may be made without departing from the scope dosage is 5 to 500 mg. of the invention described herein. 10. The method according to claim 9 wherein the daily dosage is 10 to 100 mg. 1. A method for treating premature ejaculation in patients 11. A method for treating premature ejaculation in patients with normal erectile function comprising administering a with normal erectile function comprising administering a effective amount of a PDE5 inhibitor. medicament comprising a PDE5 inhibitor. 2. The method according to claim 1 wherein the inhibitor is sildenafil. c c c c c