Comparable effects of Sildenafil, Vardenafil, and Tadalafil – the three licensed inhibitors of phosphodiesterase 5– on portal haemodynamics

Introduction: Most complications of liver cirrhosis are caused by or linked to portal hypertension (PH). Beta-blockers, organic nitrates or vasopressin derivatives lower portal pressure by a decrease of portal venous inflow. We had previously shown that Vardenafil, an inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE-5), decreases intrahepatic sinusoidal resistance, increases portal flow and lowers portal pressure. We investigated whether this effect can be found with Sildenafil and Tadalafil as well. Methods and patients: In 10 healthy male individuals liver haemodynamics were measured by Doppler ultrasonography before and…