- Viagra is a brand (trade) name for the drug sildenafil. Sildenafil blocks the action of an enzyme known as cGMP-specific phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE-5). This enzyme breaks down cGMP, a substance that induces smooth muscles to relax. Blocking PDE-5 means increased levels of cGMP within the smooth muscles which promotes muscle relaxation and vasodilation (a widening of blood vessels).
- High levels of PDE-5 are found in the penis, lungs, and retina. PDE-5 is also found throughout the body within the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels and muscles. Viagra is approved to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence) in men. Another brand of sildenafil (Revatio) is approved to treat high blood pressure associated with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
- Viagra belongs to the class of medicines known as PDE-5 inhibitors.
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