Spider Venom: A Promising Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction
A Brazilian pharmaceutical company, Biozeus, is developing a topical treatment for erectile dysfunction derived from the venom of the Brazilian wandering spider. The treatment, called BZ371A, has cleared an early human trial and will soon be tested in a Phase II study. The compound, a synthetic version of the active ingredient in the spider's venom, increases blood flow by increasing levels of nitric oxide. Biozeus claims that BZ371A relies on a novel mechanism of action and may be an attractive option for individuals who do not respond to current treatments. The Phase II trial will test BZ371A on patients who have undergone prostate removal, with results expected by April 2024.
