State Senator Nina Turner (D-Cleveland) announced legislation today that would protect men in Ohio from the risks of PDE-5 inhibitors, drugs commonly used to treat symptoms of impotence. Turner's legislation would include provisions to document that the symptoms are not psychological in nature, and would guide men to make the right decision for their bodies. Physicians would be required to obtain a second opinion from a psychological professional to verify that a patient has a true medical malady before the medication could be prescribed.

"The men in our lives, including members of the General Assembly, generously devote time to fundamental female reproductive issues--the least we can do is return the favor," Senator Turner said. "It is crucial that we take the appropriate steps to shelter vulnerable men from the potential side effects of these drugs."

The legislation follows the FDA's recommendation that the evaluation of erectile dysfunction should include a determination of potential underlying causes and the identification of appropriate treatment following a complete medical assessment.

“A prescription for medication of this kind should require an assessment that targets the nature of the problem—specifically to assess whether it’s psychological or physical,” said Turner by phone on Monday. “There are serious health risks and side effects associated with taking these treatments and I want to make sure that the fragile and vulnerable men of our country understand all of the factors before they take the drugs.” To that end, Turner’s legislature includes language to ensure men understand both the ramifications of their sexual health decisions, and, Turner said, “to make sure they understand that there are other options out there, whether they’re natural remedies or celibacy.”

“If we are going to be in the business as policy makers of regulating sexual health or medical health, then we should do it across the board,” Turner said. “We should be equal opportunity in that.”