RAPIDLY ABSORBING ORAL FORMULATIONS OF PDE 5 INHIBITORS

The present invention encompasses oral formulations of a PDE5 inhibitor which provide rapid disintegration after introduction to the oral cavity, followed by buccal and/or sublingual absorption. The orally disintegrating formulations can be in a variety of dosage forms including lingual strip, sublingual strip, oral mist, rapidly disintegrating tablet, lyophilized wafer, granulated particles and gum. The formulations can include an extended release component that allows the PDE5 inhibitor to be swallowed for gastrointestinal absorption. Combination therapies with a second pharmaceutical agent known to cause a PDE5-treatable condition as a side effect, such as erectile dysfunction, are also described. The PDE5 inhibitor of the following chemical structure is particularly favored for these formulations: