Vardenafil
[CAS 224785-90-4]

Identification

• Classification: Biochemical >> Inhibitor >> Metabolism >> PDE inhibitor
• Name: Vardenafil
• Synonyms: 2-[2-Ethoxy-5-(4-ethylpiperazin-1-yl-1-sulfonyl)phenyl]-5-methyl-7-propyl-3H-imidazo[5,1-f][1,2,4]triazin-4-one; Nuviva
• Molecular Formula: C₂₃H₃₂N₆O₄S
• Molecular Weight: 488.60
• CAS Registry Number: 224785-90-4
• EC Number: 607-088-5
• SMILES: CCCC1=NC(=C2N1N=C(NC2=O)C3=C(C=CC(=C3)S(=O)(=O)N4CCN(CC4)CC)OCC)C

Properties

• Solubility: 10 mM (DMSO)
• Density: 1.37

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS05;GHS08;GHS09 Danger
• Risk Statements: H301-H373-H410
• Safety Statements: P273-P301+P310

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H301
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	4	H413
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	2	H373

Discovery and Applications

Discovered by pharmaceutical researchers in the late 20th century, vardenafil belongs to a class of drugs known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Its mechanism of action involves inhibition of PDE5, an enzyme that regulates penile blood flow. By blocking PDE5, vardenafil promotes relaxation of the smooth muscle tissue of the penile arteries, thereby increasing blood flow and achieving and maintaining an erection.

Vardenafil is notable for its rapid onset of action and long duration of effect. Compared to other PDE5 inhibitors, vardenafil has a faster onset of action, with effects typically felt within 30 to 60 minutes of ingestion. In addition, vardenafil has a longer duration of action, up to 5 hours, making sexual activity more flexible and spontaneous.

The efficacy of vardenafil in treating ED has been demonstrated in many clinical studies and real-world applications. Whether used on an as-needed basis or as a daily regimen, vardenafil significantly improves erectile function, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction in men with ED of various etiologies, including organic, psychogenic, and mixed.

Vardenafil has several advantages over other PDE5 inhibitors, including a favorable safety and tolerability profile. Clinical trials have shown that vardenafil is well tolerated, with a low incidence of adverse reactions, including headache, hot flashes, and gastrointestinal discomfort. In addition, vardenafil has been shown to be effective in men with comorbidities, such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease, making it a suitable treatment option for a wide range of patients.

In addition to its primary indication of ED, vardenafil is also used for other conditions. Preliminary studies suggest that vardenafil may be effective in treating premature ejaculation (PE), a common sexual dysfunction characterized by uncontrollable ejaculation before or shortly after intercourse. By delaying ejaculation and prolonging sexual activity, vardenafil may provide relief for patients and their partners.

Vardenafil has been studied for the treatment of other urological and non-urological conditions. Studies have shown that vardenafil may improve urinary symptoms in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a common age-related condition characterized by an enlarged prostate. Additionally, vardenafil's vasodilatory effects may treat conditions such as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and Raynaud's phenomenon, although further studies are needed to confirm its efficacy in these areas.

References

2021. Vardenafil in the Treatment of Male Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. *Advances in Therapy*, 38(2).
DOI: 10.1007/s12325-020-01559-9

2018. Development and single dose clinical pharmacokinetics investigation of novel zein assisted-alpha lipoic acid nanoencapsulation of vardenafil. *Scientific Reports*, 8(1).
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-34235-8

2005. Vardenafil for the Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction: A Critical Review of the Literature Based on Personal Clinical Experience. *European Urology*, 47(5).
DOI: 10.1016/j.eururo.2005.01.007