PDE5 INHIBITORS

Not only sildenafil citrate (Viagra) but all of the other currently available phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors used for erectile dysfunction may increase the risk of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Two case studies of patients who developed taking PDE5 inhibitors (vardenafil and tadalafil) for erectile dysfunction showed that the condition resolved once they discontinued use of the agents but reappeared when they resumed using it and once again resolved when they stopped using it the second time. The authors of the study note that there have been previous reports of CSC in patients taking sildenafil citrate. Previous studies have also indicated a link between the use of PDE5 inhibitors and other ocular side effects, including lid oedema, hyposphagma, photophobia, mydriasis, dyschromatopsia, and nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy. The evidence suggests CSC may be another rare PDE5 inhibitor class-specific side effect, the study’s authors said

(Aliferis et al, Ophthalmogica 2012; 227:85-89)