Update on the Use of Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors in the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction

Oral therapy for erectile dysfunction with type-5 phosphodiesterase (PDE5) inhibitors has revolutionized treatment. This review presents a comprehensive update on PDE5 inhibitors and covers areas including erectile physiology, pharmacology, dosing and side effects. In addition, the use of these drugs in certain clinical situations including cardiovascular disease, as well as a discussion of rare adverse events, daily dosing, use of these drugs for the treatment of lower urinary tract systems, recreational use, novel uses for PDE5 inhibitors, and strategies for treatment failures are covered in detail. Because of the widespread use of PDE5 inhibitors for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, a comprehensive under-standing of these issues by health-care providers is necessary to ensure safe and effective prescribing practices and to improve patient satisfaction and quality of life.