Phosphodiesterase-Inhibitor

Phosphodiesterase-Inhibitors (PDEIs) are a class of medications that work by blocking the enzyme phosphodiesterase, which is responsible for breaking down certain compounds in the body. By blocking this enzyme, PDEIs have the potential to increase the concentrations of these compounds, which can have beneficial effects on the body. For example, one of the most common uses of PDEIs is to treat erectile dysfunction by increasing the levels of the compound cGMP, which relaxes the muscles in the penis and allows for an erection. PDEIs can also be used to treat asthma and COPD, as they can increase the levels of the compounds cyclic AMP and cyclic GMP, which can help to relax the airways and reduce inflammation. PDEIs can also be used to treat high blood pressure by blocking the activity of the enzyme ACE, which causes an increase in blood vessels and thus lowers blood pressure.