PDE5 (Phosphodiesterase Type 5) Inhibitor

What is a PDE5 Inhibitor?

A drug known as a PDE5 inhibitor is part of a group of medications known as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. These drugs are a major move forward in the treatment of Erectile Dysfunction in men.

For a long time, the means of getting and keeping an erection were not known. Work on understanding the male erection led to the development of drugs targeting certain aspects of the process. PDE5 Inhibitors are one such type of remedy. They target a part of this process and help to keep an erection.

The first PDE5 inhibitor available was Sildenafil Citrate. Other variants include Tadalafil, Avanafil and Vardenafil. Each variant has a different chemical formula. Therefore, they each have slightly different effects but they work in the same way. So, if one variant is no good for your symptoms, a different PD5 inhibitor, might be.

How do PDE5 inhibitors work?

An erection begins when arousal causes the release of Nitric Oxide within cells of the penis. This starts an enzyme process which causes the release of a molecule known as cGMP. The molecule causes dilation of blood vessels and therefore an increased flow of blood. This leads to a stronger erection.

The natural reaction of the body is to release PDE5 which reduces the cGMP over time. This will cause the blood vessels to contract and blood flow to reduce. The result is the loss of an erection.

The use of a PDE5 inhibitor blocks this process. Due to this, a man can keep their erection for longer. This keeps the blood vessels open and ensures a non-stop flow of blood to the penis.

However, this process does not occur without sexual stimulation. So, there must be sexual arousal for a PDE5 inhibitor to affect the blood vessels of the man's penis.

Where can I find more information on PDE5 inhibitors?

Wikipedia contains an entry on PDE5 Inhibitors: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PDE5_inhibitor

Restrictions for the use of PDE5 Inhibitors

Do not take a PDE5 Inhibitor if you are taking nitrates or poppers. Mixing these drugs is very dangerous. Also, men should also take care if they have a recent history of heart surgery. Or if they have a history of stroke or heart attacks. This is due to the way the drug alters blood flow. Ultimately, men should consult their doctor before taking any new medications.