cAMP-Phosphodiesterase Inhibitor

cAMP-Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors are drugs that inhibit the action of an enzyme called cAMP-Phosphodiesterase (PDE). This enzyme is responsible for breaking down the second messenger cAMP, which is released in response to hormones like adrenaline and glucagon. When PDE is inhibited, cAMP levels remain elevated, leading to increased cellular activity. This increased cellular activity has various medicinal effects, depending on the cell type. For example, in the heart, increased cAMP levels lead to an increase in heart rate and contractility, making cAMP-Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors useful in treating heart failure. In the lungs, increased cAMP levels cause bronchodilation, making cAMP-Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors useful in treating asthma. In the brain, increased cAMP levels lead to increased neuronal excitability, making cAMP-Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors useful in treating certain neurological disorders. Additionally, cAMP-Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors may be used to treat certain metabolic disorders.