The effect of sildenafil on ocular blood flow

Br J Ophthalmol. 2008 Apr;92(4):469-73. doi: 10.1136/bjo.2007.131789.

Abstract

Sildenafil is a potent phosphodiesterase (PDE) 5 inhibitor that is used for patients with erectile dysfunction. Sildenafil induces vasodilation in selected smooth muscle via increased levels of guanosine 3', 5' cyclic monophosphate and increase in nitric oxide. The vasodilatory effects of the PDE 5 inhibitors led us to review its effect on the ocular vasculature. Sildenafil appears to increase blood flow velocity significantly in the retrobulbar and choroidal circulation. Most studies suggest an increase in choroidal blood flow, with a lesser effect on the retinal vasculature.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • 3',5'-Cyclic-GMP Phosphodiesterases / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Animals
  • Blood Flow Velocity / drug effects
  • Choroid / blood supply
  • Eye / blood supply*
  • Eye / drug effects*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors / pharmacology*
  • Piperazines / pharmacology*
  • Purines / pharmacology
  • Regional Blood Flow / drug effects
  • Sildenafil Citrate
  • Sulfones / pharmacology*
  • Vasodilator Agents / pharmacology*
  • Vision, Ocular / drug effects

Substances

  • Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors
  • Piperazines
  • Purines
  • Sulfones
  • Vasodilator Agents
  • Sildenafil Citrate
  • 3',5'-Cyclic-GMP Phosphodiesterases