Sildenafil Prescribed for Erectile Dysfunction May Induce Esophageal Symptoms

Shim, Sang Goon; Kim, Beom Jin; Rhee, Poong Lyul; Lee, Seong Won

Abstract

BACKGROUND/AIMS
Sildenafil, which is commonly prescribed for erectile dysfunction, is a potent and selective inhibitor of cGMP-specific phosphodiesterase type 5. Recently, sildenafil has been found to induce changes in esophageal motility. However, it reamins unclear whether sildenafil-induced esophageal dysmotility could lead to esophageal symptoms. We evaluated clinical features of esophageal symptoms induced by sildenafil use.
METHODS
From January 2000 to December 2001, we examined 300 patients who had taken sildenafil for erectile dysfunction. The development of adverse effects, especially esophageal symptoms, was studied retrospectively by telephone interview. The questionnaire included single dosage and mean frequency of administration, underlying diseases, satisfaction with the treatment and adverse effects involving esophagus. The adverse effects were categorized according to their severity, frequency, onset and duration.
RESULTS
The mean dosage of sildenafil was 53.6+/-15.3 mg. The mean frequency of administration was less than 4 times per month in 252 (84%) out of the 300 patients. Adverse effects were reported by 84 patients (28.0%). The two most common adverse effects were facial flushing (64.3%) and headache (14.3%). Esophageal symptoms, such as dysphagia (2.3%) and odynophagia (1.6%), were noted in 9 patients (3.0%). Esophageal symptoms developed intermittently and lasted for less than 1 hour. All these patients had mild adverse effects, but in no case the adverse effects led to discontinuance of the medication.
CONCLUSIONS
In some patients treated for erectile dysfunction, sildenafil may cause esophageal symptoms, such as dysphagia and odynophagia.