A PDE inhibitor, or phosphodiesterase inhibitor, is a type of medication that blocks the enzyme phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5). This enzyme normally reduces the effects of nitric oxide in the body. By blocking PDE-5, these inhibitors help nitric oxide work more effectively, relaxing blood vessels in the lungs, improving blood Show Full Answer
A PDE inhibitor, or phosphodiesterase inhibitor, is a type of medication that blocks the enzyme phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5). This enzyme normally reduces the effects of nitric oxide in the body. By blocking PDE-5, these inhibitors help nitric oxide work more effectively, relaxing blood vessels in the lungs, improving blood flow, and reducing pulmonary arterial pressure. Common examples include sildenafil (Revatio) and tadalafil (Adcirca), often used in pulmonary hypertension treatment.
February 6, 2025