Beyond Viagra: A Commonsense Guide to Building a Healthy Sexual Relationship for Both Men and Women

After the hype, a thoughtful, responsible approach to improving sexual function.

The viagra revolution is here, and while the drug truly can help many of the millions of Americans who seek it, it can create as many problems as it can cure. Here is the first book to help readers-men and women together-understand some of the common root causes of sexual dysfunction and determine whether the quick fix of Viagra will help them, or possibly make their situation worse. Dr. Melchiode, who participated in some of the early clinical trials of Viagra, gives the reader a tour of the sexual psyche, pointing out the obstacles and pitfalls posed by treatment, whether with drugs or through other means. Most important, he makes the critical point that men must involve their partners in the treatment, and offers sage advice on how to do so in a positive and loving manner. He also discusses such thorny issues as the role of the physician, the relationship with one's insurer or HMO, and the potential impact of Viagra-both good and bad-on male-female relations, and society in general.

Gerald Melchiode, M.D., is a professor of psychiatry and lecturer at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas and has been a therapist in human sexuality for more than thirty years. Bill Sloan is a former award-winning reporter for the Dallas Times, and a Pulitzer Prize nominee.