Which statement best describes Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Vardenafil, and Alprostadil?

Which statement best describes Sildenafil, Tadalafil, Vardenafil, and Alprostadil?

• A. They treat erectile dysfunction
• B. They are antibiotics
• C. They are antihistamines
• D. They are diuretics

Answer: (A)

They are used to treat erectile dysfunction. Sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil are PDE5 inhibitors that block the breakdown of cGMP in penile tissue, allowing nitric oxide–mediated smooth muscle relaxation to increase blood flow and produce an erection with sexual stimulation. Alprostadil is a prostaglandin E1 analog that directly relaxes smooth muscle to dilate penile vessels, triggering an erection via injection or urethral suppository. These options are not antibiotics, antihistamines, or diuretics. They should not be used with nitrates due to the risk of dangerous drops in blood pressure.

They are used to treat erectile dysfunction. Sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil are PDE5 inhibitors that block the breakdown of cGMP in penile tissue, allowing nitric oxide–mediated smooth muscle relaxation to increase blood flow and produce an erection with sexual stimulation. Alprostadil is a prostaglandin E1 analog that directly relaxes smooth muscle to dilate penile vessels, triggering an erection via injection or urethral suppository. These options are not antibiotics, antihistamines, or diuretics. They should not be used with nitrates due to the risk of dangerous drops in blood pressure.