The Stonger Erection

All these activities are under the control of NO molecules. The nerves that serve the spongy tissue and the penile arteries are, not surprisingly, rich in NOS. Thus, when you become sexually aroused, the NOS-rich nerves leap into action, kicking the conversion of L-arginine to NO into overdrive. The relatively large amounts of NO produced quickly diffuse to nearby arteries and smooth muscle, causing them to dilate and relax. NOS can be activated by a number of common substances released from nerves. Especially important is the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Penile erection has been studied in a variety of animal and in vitro (test tube) experiments. In one animal study, scientists injected one of three drugs into the corporal cavernosal tissue of primates. Two of the drugs, s-nitrocysteine (NO-CYS) and sodium nitroprus-side (SNP), are direct sources of NO molecules. The third, acetylcholine (ACh), stimulates NOS to produce NO. For all three drugs, as the dose increased, so did the length, duration and hardness of the erections [Hellstrom, 1994]. Doing the same thing to cats gives a similar result [Wang, 1994]. Many people have experienced the prosexual effects of a NO-donating drug without even realizing it. The drug is amyl nitrate, which acts as a potent and short-acting vasodilator when inhaled. Many people inhale amyl nitrate just prior to sex. By rapidly lowering blood pressure, it can cause a momentary light-headedness as well as a bigger, harder erection. In so doing, it can significantly intensify the experience.

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