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Phosphodiesterase inhibitor effect on small artery function in preeclampsia
Rebekah A Samangaya1, Mark Wareing, Laurence Skillern
1Maternal & Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK. rasmith@doctors.net.uk
Hypertension in Pregnancy
|September 8, 2010
Summary
Sildenafil citrate did not improve arterial relaxation in women with preeclampsia. The drug
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Pharmacology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure.
- Endothelial dysfunction contributes to the pathophysiology of preeclampsia.
- Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors like sildenafil citrate have shown potential in improving endothelial function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of sildenafil citrate on endothelial-dependent relaxation of small arteries in women with preeclampsia.
- To assess whether sildenafil citrate can improve vascular function in preeclampsia.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted.
- Myometrial and omental arteries were obtained from women with preeclampsia.
- Wire myography was used to measure vasoconstriction and endothelial-dependent relaxation.
Main Results:
- Sildenafil citrate did not significantly alter vasoconstriction or endothelial-dependent relaxation in myometrial arteries.
- Sildenafil citrate did not significantly alter vasoconstriction or endothelial-dependent relaxation in omental arteries.
Conclusions:
- Acute administration of sildenafil citrate did not demonstrate a beneficial effect on arterial relaxation in women with preeclampsia.
- The lack of observed effect may be due to the long interval between drug administration and myography, potentially leading to diminished plasma drug levels.
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