Unfortunately, I would just take ibuprofen daily and try not to masturbate or have sex. Your penis needs rest.
Some urologists, like Dr. Lipshults, recommend these to minimize penile fibrosis. There are no good studies to prove they are effective.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Supplements and Prescription Drugs Urologists Recommend for Minimizing Penile Fibrosis
Penile fibrosis, most commonly associated with Peyronie’s disease, involves the development of fibrous plaques in the penile tissue, leading to curvature, pain, and sometimes erectile dysfunction. While prescription medications and procedures are the mainstays of treatment, several OTC supplements are commonly discussed in urology for their potential to minimize fibrosis or slow disease progression. The evidence for these supplements varies, and they are generally considered adjuncts rather than primary therapies.
Commonly Recommended OTC Supplements
· Vitamin E
o One of the most widely used supplements for Peyronie’s disease due to its antioxidant properties. It is thought to help reduce oxidative stress and possibly minimize plaque formation, although robust clinical evidence is limited and guidelines do not strongly recommend it as monotherapy[1][2][3][4].
· Acetyl-L-Carnitine
o Some studies suggest acetyl-L-carnitine may reduce pain and slow curvature progression, possibly due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It may be particularly effective in the early, painful phase of the disease[1][5][2].
· Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
o CoQ10 has shown promise in reducing plaque size and improving erectile function in some studies, likely due to its role in cellular energy production and antioxidant activity[5][2].
· Omega-3 Fatty Acids
o Known for their anti-inflammatory properties, omega-3s may help reduce inflammation and support tissue health, though direct evidence for their effect on penile fibrosis is limited[2][3][4].
· L-Arginine
o An amino acid precursor to nitric oxide, L-arginine may help by promoting vasodilation and supporting tissue health. Animal studies suggest it could reduce plaque size and collagen deposition, especially when used in combination with other therapies[1][6][3][7].
· Curcumin
o Derived from turmeric, curcumin has demonstrated antifibrotic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties in animal models. One study in rats showed curcumin reduced fibrotic tissue in the tunica albuginea, suggesting potential benefit, though human data are lacking[8].
Supplements with Prescription-Only or Limited OTC Access
· Potassium Para-Aminobenzoate (POTABA)
o POTABA is a B-complex vitamin derivative that inhibits fibroblast activity. It has shown some benefit in reducing curvature and plaque in clinical studies, but it is available by prescription only in the US[1][9][6].
· Pentoxifylline
o An oral medication with anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects, pentoxifylline is sometimes compounded and used off-label for Peyronie’s disease. It is not typically available OTC[3].
Summary Table
Supplement |
Evidence in Penile Fibrosis |
Mechanism |
OTC Status |
Vitamin E |
Weak/controversial |
Antioxidant |
Yes |
Acetyl-L-carnitine |
Some supportive studies |
Anti-inflammatory/antioxidant |
Yes |
CoQ10 |
Some supportive studies |
Antioxidant, cellular health |
Yes |
Omega-3 |
Weak/controversial |
Anti-inflammatory |
Yes |
L-Arginine |
Animal/basic science data |
Nitric oxide precursor |
Yes |
Curcumin |
Animal data |
Antifibrotic/antioxidant |
Yes |
POTABA |
Human studies |
Antifibrotic |
Prescription |
Pentoxifylline |
Human studies |
Antifibrotic |
Prescription |
