23 November 2003
Penis Patches A Sticky Subject

Using a special transdermal patch is the latest method being promoted to enlarge the penis. Transdermal patches themselves are not a new invention and have been used for delivering all sorts of drugs – from nicotine to testosterone – for years. The advantage of transdermal patches is that the drug is delivered directly to the bloodstream, rather than via the digestive system. Additionally, the drug is released slowly over a longer time period, often several days. This makes transdermal patches an effective way to deliver drugs in controlled amounts in a continuous manner. The drugs or adhesive contained in transdermal patches can cause skin irritation. This can be exacerbated by sweating which may also cause the patch to loosen. Patch location should consequently be varied to avoid problems with skin irritation.

Penis enlargement patches are a relatively new application of transdermal drug delivery and are available from a number of manufacturers. Many of these manufacturers also offer penis pill products. Manufacturers make a number of claims about their products including, increased size, greater sex drive, increased stamina, no nausea or side effects to the digestive system, longer lasting erections and increased penis hardness.

Whilst some manufacturers claim their patches can enlarge the penis by up to five inches, others are making more modest claims. In fact, some manufacturers are calling their products “penis enhancement” patches rather than “penis enlargement” patches. This seems a more accurate description as we have seen no evidence that patches can actually make the penis grow. The enlargement claims likely stem from the fact that the ingredients in patches – such as Yohimbe – can act to increase blood flow to the genitals. This will engorge the penis with more blood and harder, and therefore larger, erections will result. Other constituents in patches have been demonstrated to increase libido and mimic the effects of testosterone. Some of these include;

• Epimedium – Has a testosterone like effect and can boost libido and improve erectile function.
• Cuscuta – Said to increase fertility in both men and women.
• Muria Puama – Assists with reproductive system function and cardiovascular system function.
• Catuaba – A stimulant of the nervous system and documented treatment for impotence.
• Yohimbe – A common ingredient in penis pill formulations. Its effects include very firm erections.

Men wanting to try patches should be aware that preparations containing Yohimbe are prohibited in many countries. Additionally, the use of Yohimbe is currently being investigated by the FDA as it can have serious side effects.