What it means
A drug that increases blood flow by blocking the enzyme phosphodiesterase-5. It treats erectile dysfunction, the urinary symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasiabee-NINE proh-STAT-ik hy-per-PLAY-zhuhA prostate gland that has grown larger than normal, from growth that is not cancer.hyper- more than normalplas growth or formation-ia conditionFull entry , and pulmonary arterial hypertension (as Adcirca or Alyq). It lasts up to 36 hours. Headache, flushing, back pain and stuffy nose are common.
For the nurse
Ask about nitrate use: taking it with nitrates such as nitroglycerin or isosorbide dinitrateeye-soh-SOR-bide dy-NY-trateA long-acting nitrate drug, taken by mouth, that widens blood vessels to prevent chest pain from angina.Full entry can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Teach the client to get emergency help for an erection lasting over 4 hours or sudden vision or hearing loss.
At a glance
| Drug class | phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Cialis, Adcirca, Alyq |
| Also written | Cialis, Adcirca, Alyq |
Related terms
hypotension
Blood pressure lower than normal, generally below 90/60 mm Hg in an adult.
benign prostatic hyperplasia
A prostate gland that has grown larger than normal, from growth that is not cancer.
isosorbide dinitrate
A long-acting nitrate drug, taken by mouth, that widens blood vessels to prevent chest pain from angina.