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The clinical pharmacokinetics of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors for erectile dysfunction
Manish Gupta1, Andreas Kovar, Bernd Meibohm
1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 874 Union Avenue, Suite 5p, Memphis, TN 38163, USA.
Abstract:
Differences in the clinical pharmacology of the 3 currently available oral phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors, sildenafil, vardenafil, and tadalafil, are largely determined by their clinical pharmacokinetics as well as their PDE inhibitory activity profile. This review comparatively discusses the major characteristics of the pharmacokinetic profile of all 3 PDE5 inhibitors, including bioavailability and rate of absorption, Biopharmaceutical Classification System categorization, elimination mechanisms, and metabolic profile including active metabolites, as well as the drug-drug interaction potential and modification of pharmacokinetic properties under selected physiologic and pathophysiologic conditions. The review is aimed at providing comparative clinical pharmacology data to allow for scientifically rational, evidence-based prescribing and dosing decisions regarding the clinical use of these medications for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
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