phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor

Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are medications that help improve blood flow, primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction. They work by blocking the PDE5 enzyme, which normally tightens blood vessels. By inhibiting this enzyme, these drugs relax the blood vessels, allowing more blood to reach certain areas, like the penis, aiding in achieving and maintaining an erection. Common PDE5 inhibitors include sildenafil (Viagra), tadalafil (Cialis), and vardenafil (Levitra). They are effective when taken prior to sexual activity and require sexual stimulation for optimal results.