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Chronic dosing of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors

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Abstract

Ten years ago, the introduction of sildenafil citrate for the treatment of erectile dysfunction fundamentally changed the field of sexual medicine. The sexual indications, along with the pharmacologic characteristics of this drug, led to its approval for on-demand use. Additional phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors were introduced for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, and each subsequent agent used the on-demand treatment paradigm. Yet, advances in laboratory investigations and accumulating clinical evidence suggest that daily dosing is feasible and may improve treatment efficacy and compliance. Recently one of these agents, tadalafil, was approved in several countries for once-daily dosing. Broad clinical experience with this treatment option is just beginning. The widespread presence of PDE5 in other vascular beds has led to additional nonsexual indications for PDE5 inhibitors.

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  1. Duke University Medical Center, Box 2922, Durham, NC, 27710, USA

    Craig F. Donatucci

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  1. Craig F. Donatucci
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Correspondence to Craig F. Donatucci.

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Donatucci, C.F. Chronic dosing of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors. Curr sex health rep 5, 65–69 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11930-008-0012-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11930-008-0012-y

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