Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 14, 2026
07:59
Acetylcholine Re-Challenge After Intracoronary Nitroglycerine Administration
Published on: April 4, 2022
Does sildenafil contribute to acute coronary thrombosis?
Ersan Tatlı1, Mehmet Akif Çakar, Emir Doğan
1Department of Cardiology, Ada Medical Hospital, Sakarya, Turkey. ersantatli@yahoo.com.
Summary
Sildenafil, used for erectile dysfunction, can rarely cause myocardial infarction (MI) even without prior heart issues. This case highlights a 43-year-old man experiencing chest pain and acute anterior MI after taking sildenafil.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor approved for erectile dysfunction.
- Myocardial infarction (MI) is a rare adverse event associated with sildenafil use, particularly in patients without pre-existing coronary artery disease.
Observation:
- A 43-year-old male presented with acute chest pain shortly after sildenafil ingestion.
- Electrocardiography revealed findings indicative of acute anterior myocardial infarction.
Findings:
- Coronary angiography demonstrated a total occlusion of the left anterior descending artery due to thrombosis.
- Successful percutaneous coronary intervention with stenting was performed.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for sildenafil to precipitate acute coronary events, including MI, in susceptible individuals.
- Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for cardiac events in patients presenting with chest pain after sildenafil use, regardless of cardiac history.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Acute Coronary Syndrome I: Introduction
Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) encompasses a spectrum of heart conditions caused by sudden obstruction of coronary arteries, typically resulting from the rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque and subsequent thrombus (blood clot) formation. This obstruction can lead to partial or complete blockage of blood flow, causing varying degrees of myocardial ischemia or infarction.ACS includes the following clinical entities:Unstable Angina (UA)Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI)ST-Elevation...
01:19Acute Coronary Syndrome II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations
The pathophysiology of Acute Coronary Syndrome [ACD] involves several key processes:The main underlying cause of ACD is atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the buildup of lipid-laden plaques within the coronary arteries.As the atherosclerotic plaque grows in the coronary artery, it may become unstable due to the formation of a lipid-rich core and a thin fibrous cap. Inflammatory cells within the plaque, such as macrophages, secrete enzymes that degrade the...
01:28Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors
Phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors are potent enzymes that function to hydrolyze cyclic nucleotides to their corresponding 5' monophosphates. Their unique biochemical properties have been applied in treating Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH).
Among the PDE5 inhibitors, sildenafil (Revatio) stands out as a competitive and selective inhibitor. It operates by elevating cellular levels of cGMP and augmenting signaling through the cGMP-PKG pathway, promoting vasodilation. Upon oral...
Among the PDE5 inhibitors, sildenafil (Revatio) stands out as a competitive and selective inhibitor. It operates by elevating cellular levels of cGMP and augmenting signaling through the cGMP-PKG pathway, promoting vasodilation. Upon oral...
01:30Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies
Diagnosing acute coronary syndrome or ACS begins with a thorough patient history. Notable symptoms include central, crushing chest pain radiating to the left arm, neck, jaw, or back, along with shortness of breath, sweating (diaphoresis), nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and palpitations.It is crucial to note any history of cardiac illnesses and assess risk factors, including age, gender, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and a sedentary lifestyle.During physical examination, vital...
01:28Acute Coronary Syndrome IV: Interprofessional Care
IntroductionThe management of Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) aims to minimize myocardial damage, preserve myocardial function, and prevent complications.Initial ManagementInpatient management involves continuous cardiac monitoring, preferably in an ICU, focusing on blood pressure, serum sodium, potassium, and creatinine levels, and urine output. Ongoing pharmacologic management is crucial for stabilizing the patient.Supplemental Oxygen: Administer supplemental oxygen if oxygen saturation is...
01:30Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a primary health risk worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The condition arises from the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries, resulting in diminished blood supply to the heart muscle.The clinical manifestations of CAD vary widely, from asymptomatic stages to severe, life-threatening conditions. Understanding these manifestations is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.Angina Pectoris: The Warning...