Vardenafil, specifically Vardenafil trihydrate hydrochloride, targets a specific enzyme in the body: phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). PDE5 breaks down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), a crucial molecule involved in penile erection.
By inhibiting PDE5, vardenafil increases cGMP levels. Higher cGMP levels relax the smooth muscles in the penis, allowing increased blood flow. This increased blood flow is the key mechanism behind vardenafil’s effect in treating erectile dysfunction.
This process is initiated by sexual stimulation. Sexual stimulation triggers the release of nitric oxide (NO), which then initiates a cascade of events ultimately leading to increased cGMP. Vardenafil enhances this process by preventing cGMP breakdown.
Therefore, vardenafil doesn’t directly cause erections; it facilitates the natural erectile response to sexual stimulation.
In short: Sexual stimulation → Nitric oxide release → Increased cGMP → Vardenafil inhibits PDE5, preventing cGMP breakdown → Increased blood flow to the penis → Erection.
