Priapism caused by 'Tribulus terrestris'

Int J Impot Res. 2016 Jan-Feb;28(1):39-40. doi: 10.1038/ijir.2015.30. Epub 2015 Dec 3.

Abstract

A 36-year-old Caucasian man was diagnosed with a 72-h-lasting priapism that occurred after the assumption of a Herbal supplement based on Tribulus terrestris, which is becoming increasingly popular for the treatment of sexual dysfunction. The patient underwent a cavernoglandular shunt (Ebbehoj shunt) in order to obtain complete detumescence, from which derived negative post-episode outcomes on sexual function. All patients consuming non-FDA-approved alternative supplements such as Tribulus terrestris should be warned about the possible serious side effects.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Drainage / methods
  • Erectile Dysfunction / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Phytotherapy*
  • Plant Preparations / pharmacology*
  • Priapism* / diagnosis
  • Priapism* / etiology
  • Priapism* / physiopathology
  • Priapism* / therapy
  • Self Medication / adverse effects
  • Tribulus / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Plant Preparations