phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor

phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor

member of a family of phosphodiesterase inhibitors. Specifically, cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-specific phosphodiesterase type 5, which breaks down cGMP and terminates its action. This is the site of action of sildenafil and similar drugs used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
See also: sildenafil.
Synonym(s): PDE5