Lodenafil

Lodenafil is a drug used in urology to treat erectile dysfunction. It belongs to the class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, which also includes sildenafil, vardenafil, and tadalafil. These drugs work by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5, which plays a role in regulating blood flow to the penis.

Etymology

The name "Lodenafil" is derived from the names of other drugs in the same class. The "-afil" suffix is common to all drugs classified as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors.

Pharmacology

Lodenafil is a prodrug that is converted in the body to its active form, lodenafil carbonate. This conversion is thought to occur primarily in the liver. The active form of the drug works by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5, which is found in various tissues, but primarily in the corpus cavernosum of the penis, as well as in the retina. Inhibition of this enzyme leads to an increase in the levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which in turn leads to smooth muscle relaxation and increased blood flow in the penis, facilitating erection.

Clinical Use

Lodenafil is used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. It is typically administered orally, in the form of a tablet. The recommended dose is 80 mg, taken as needed, approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity. The maximum recommended dosing frequency is once per day.

Side Effects

Common side effects of lodenafil include headache, flushing, dyspepsia, nasal congestion, and visual disturbances. Rare but serious side effects include priapism (a prolonged and potentially painful erection lasting more than 4 hours), sudden hearing loss, and non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), a condition that can lead to sudden vision loss.

See Also

• Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sildenafil
• Vardenafil
• Tadalafil

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