We have no information which links prescription items dispensed with either the sex or the age of the patient receiving them. However, in the case of anti-impotence preparations we can assume that all prescriptions issued are for males. Information gathered through the analysis of prescriptions issued free of charge allows some estimates to be made of prescriptions received by persons aged 60 and over.
The main anti-impotence preparations are listed at paragraphs 7.4.5 (Drugs for erectile dysfunction) of the British National Formulary (BNF). Some of these drugs may have been prescribed for other conditions but it is not possible to determine how large a proportion. Similarly, drugs from other parts of the BNF or drugs not licensed for this condition, may have been prescribed. Again, it is not possible to determine the proportion of the use of these drugs.
Estimates of the number of prescription items issued to all males, males aged 60 and over and those issued to males under 60 for each year between 2002 and 2006 are set out in the following table.
Males under 60 Males 60 and over All males Number of items (Thousand)1 Net ingredient cost (£000)1 Number of items (Thousand)1 Net ingredient cost (£000)1 Number of items (Thousand)1 Net ingredient cost (£000)1 2002 584.3 18,815.64 476.2 15,284.90 1060.5 34,100.54 2003 682.6 22,193.90 591.2 18,601.70 1273.8 40,795.60 2004 757.8 24,449.55 707.0 22,672.00 1464.8 47,121.55 2005 790.0 27,225.71 800.3 26,119.64 1590.4 53,345.35 2006 826.8 28,777.47 873.8 29,269.12 1700.6 58,046.59 1 Estimated.