Scientists from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York have developed a potential erectile dysfunction treatment utilizing nanotechnology. With this treatment, nanoparticles are loaded with nitric oxide (a naturally-occuring chemical in the body that makes blood vessels expand and fill with blood).

The drug’s tiny particles are absorbed directly through the skin, causing a much faster reaction time than drugs like Viagra that are taken orally. In fact, the lab tests in rats have shown response times as fast as 10 minutes. By applying the product directly to the area needing increased blood flow, only that area reacts to the drug, rather than the whole body being affected.

Another potential advantage this treatment could have is its lack of the mild side effects noticed when taking Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra, because the drug is applied directly to the skin, and not ingested.

The study, presented at theannual meeting of the American Urological Association, shows promising results in lab rats. Researchers are hopeful that similar results will be seen in humans.