Question: I have been suffering with Peyronie’s Disease for five years. I don’t want to have surgery. Are there any alternative treatments?

Dr. Brownstein's Answer:

Peyronie’s disease is a condition where scar tissue inside the penis causes curved, painful erections and penile shortening. Trauma to the penis, including sexual activity, is to blame.

Some believe that medications can also cause Peyronie’s disease, including calcium beta blockers. In many cases, no definite cause can be established.

There are no effective oral medications to treat it, and surgery is sometimes suggested to try to reverse the curvature. But this surgery is associated with side effects.

I have found that the application of topical iodine to the curved area where scar tissue is palpated can help Peyronie’s disease. I have had some success with telling patients to apply Lugol’s iodine solution directly to the curved area each night.

Finally, taking an oral systemic enzyme on an empty stomach also seems to help. I suggest taking two enzyme tablets twice per day. This treatment may take as long as three to six months to work.