| name | PDE5 Inhibitors |
| classification | Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Oral administration; absorption variable, influenced by food and other factors. Peak plasma concentrations typically achieved within 1-4 hours. | | distribution | Wide distribution throughout the body, including the vascular tissues of the penis. | | metabolism | Metabolized primarily in the liver, with variable rates depending on specific drug and individual factors. Some are CYP3A4 substrates, potentially interacting with other medications metabolized by this pathway. | | excretion | Excreted primarily through the kidneys and/or liver, with variable half-lives. |
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| suggested dosage | Dosage varies widely between specific PDE5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil). Consult a physician for appropriate dosage based on individual needs, medical history, and response to treatment. Starting doses are generally lower, and titrated upwards with monitoring of effectiveness and side effects. Specific dosing information can not be provided without considering patient specific factors. |
| indications | Erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult males. |
| safety in pregnancy | Category C pregnancy risk. Avoid use during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. These drugs should not be used by women of child-bearing potential unless effective contraception is employed. This is due to theoretical potential fetal harm. |
| safety in breast feeding | Limited data available. It's not known if these drugs are excreted in breast milk. Use with caution, and consider alternative treatments where possible. |
| side effects | | 1 | Headache | | 2 | Dyspepsia (indigestion) | | 3 | Nasal congestion | | 4 | Visual disturbances (e.g., blue-tinted vision, blurred vision) | | 5 | Flushing | | 6 | Muscle aches | | 7 | Back pain | | 8 | Priapism (prolonged painful erection): Serious and requires immediate medical attention. | | 9 | Hypotension (low blood pressure) | | 10 | Sudden hearing loss or tinnitus. Serious, and warrants immediate medical attention. | | 11 | Allergic reactions (rare but possible) |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | History of cardiovascular disease (e.g., recent MI, stroke, unstable angina), or uncontrolled hypertension | | 2 | Patients taking nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate), as this combination can result in severe hypotension (low blood pressure). | | 3 | Known severe retinal or eye conditions | | 4 | Dehydration or hypotension | | 5 | Recent or planned surgical intervention involving the eyes, especially if the patient is taking alpha-blockers. |
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| interactions | | 1 | Nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate, and other vasodilators). | | 2 | Alpha-blockers (e.g., terazosin, doxazosin). | | 3 | Certain medications that affect liver or kidney function, and/or CYP3A4-mediated metabolism. | | 4 | Other medications can influence the effectiveness and/or safety of PDE5 inhibitors |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Patients with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions should exercise caution and consult their doctor before starting PDE5 inhibitors. | | 2 | Patients with a history of hearing loss or tinnitus should be monitored closely while taking these medications. | | 3 | Detailed medical history and thorough evaluation of cardiovascular status is essential before prescribing PDE5 inhibitors. | | 4 | Monitor blood pressure closely during initiation and titration of treatment, and ensure regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider to assess efficacy and safety. |
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| additional information | This information is for general knowledge only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment, and any questions regarding your medical condition or treatment. Detailed information for individual drugs can be found in their package leaflets/prescribing information. |
| patient profile | |
