Erectile Dysfunction and PDE5 Inhibitors

0
Jan 29, 2015/ 0 Comments / in Erectile Dysfunction / by
Erectile Dysfunction and PDE5 Inhibitors

Erectile Dysfunction and PDE5 Inhibitors

Erectile dysfunction is a common sexual problem in men, with over 100 million men suffering from ED. It is a condition in which the penis is unable to achieve or maintain erections. Fortunately, treatment for ED is available in the form of phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which increase blood flow to the penis in response to sexual stimulation, leading to an erection and better sexual performance.

Since ED can adversely affect your self esteem and performance in bed, PDE5 inhibitors tend to raise level of a substance, known as intracavernosal NO, that stimulates contraction and relaxation, allowing for greater blood flow and a more sustained erection and penetration and resulting in a satisfactory sexual intercourse.


ED and PDE5 Inhibitors

Morning Erection ImageWhen the smooth muscle in penis is relaxed, it helps the penis achieve an erection. Sidenafil or viagra is the most commonly used PDE5 inhibitor. Other PDE5 inhibitors include vardenafil (Levitra) and tadalafil (Cialis), which are clinically proven for the treatment of ED.

When it comes to finding the connection between ED and PDE5 inhibitors, it is important to note that these drugs work only when the there is some sexual arousal, which are effective within 15 -45 minutes. These medications block enzyme Phosphodiesterase-5, which is found in the penis’ smooth muscle cells, and thus help boost the natural response of your body to sexual arousal and stimulation. When nitric oxide enters the penis, the enzyme GMP present in its smooth cell is converted into cyclic GMP, resulting in an erection. cGMP stays for longer in the penis muscle, and helps in achieving and maintaining an erection.

Though these drugs are a good treatment for erectile dysfunction, PDE5 inhibitors do cause some side effects, which may include headache, upset stomach, flushing, dizziness, back pain, muscle ache, blocked nose, and nasal congestion.


Erectile Dysfunction and Heart Disease ImagePDE5 Contraindications

PDE5 inhibitors are a safe and effective ED treatment for most men. However, these drugs are not considered appropriate for men suffering from certain conditions, including history of heart attack, stroke, chronic heart disease, hypotension, severe heart failure, diabetes, or uncontrolled high blood pressure. These medications may also interact with nitrate drugs. Men suffering from an unstable heart are advised not to take PDE5 inhibitors.

If you are worried about erectile dysfunction but are unsure whether to take PDE5 inhibitors as a treatment, talk to your doctor immediately.

Tags: