Associations between phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors and vascular function: a systematic review and meta-analysis...

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Research
• Pharmacology
• Medical Science

Background:

• Phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors (PDE5is) are primarily used for erectile dysfunction (ED).
• PDE5is possess potential cardioprotective effects, but their impact on vascular parameters and subclinical cardiovascular diseases remains unclear.
• This study aimed to evaluate the effects of PDE5is on various vascular parameters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze the effects of PDE5is on vascular parameters.
• To assess the potential of PDE5is in managing subclinical cardiovascular diseases.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between 1998 and 2022.
• Searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for relevant studies.
• Pooled mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and conducted sensitivity analyses.

Main Results:

• Sixty-three studies involving 3242 subjects were included.
• PDE5is significantly decreased systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, carotid intima-media thickness, and pulse wave velocity.
• PDE5is also increased peak systolic velocity, flow-mediated dilation, and concentrations of endothelial progenitor cells and endothelial microparticles.

Conclusions:

• PDE5is demonstrated significant improvements in key vascular parameters compared to placebo.
• These findings indicate a potential role for PDE5is in the treatment of subclinical cardiovascular diseases.
• Further research is warranted to confirm the efficacy of PDE5is in preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases.