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Sildenafil and nasal obstruction
Medhi Motamed1, Davinder Sandhu, George E Murty
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester, United Kingdom.
The Journal of Otolaryngology
|November 1, 2003
Summary
Sildenafil, a medication for erectile dysfunction, may decrease nasal patency. This pilot study found increased nasal obstruction and reduced nasal airflow after sildenafil administration.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Otolaryngology
- Physiology
Background:
- Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor used for erectile dysfunction.
- Nitric oxide, influenced by sildenafil, plays a role in nasal functions like vasodilation and secretion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of sildenafil on nasal patency.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving five subjects.
- Nasal patency was measured using a visual analogue score and peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF).
- Measurements were taken before and after sildenafil administration.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in the subjective sensation of nasal obstruction was observed (p = .003).
- A significant reduction in peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) was recorded (p < .001).
Conclusions:
- Sildenafil administration may lead to decreased nasal patency.
- Further research is warranted to explore the role of phosphodiesterase inhibitors in nasal physiology.