Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i), such as sildenafil, are currently prescribed for erectile dysfunction, however recent studies have suggested that they may also have beneficial cardiac effects in some patients.
Researchers have conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis looking at the effect of PDE5i on cardiac remodelling and performance, as well as their safety. They found that chronic daily administration has anti-remodelling effects in patients with moderate-severe left ventricular hypertrophy, that they are well tolerated, and have a good safety profile.
The meta-analysis included RCTs that reported on cardiovascular outcomes where participants had been administered daily PDE5i. Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final analyses. Of these, 18 administered sildenafil, four tadalafil and two vardenafil. These trials included a total of 1,622 subjects (954 randomised to PDE5i and 772 to placebo).
PDE5i appear to have anti-remodelling properties and improve cardiac function, while being well tolerated and safe. This suggests that they may be of benefit in men with cardiac hypertrophy or early stage heart failure.
Written by Stephanie Harriman, Medical Editor for BioMed Central.
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