sildenafil

Definition

A drug that is used in the form of its citrate C₂₂H₃₀N₆O₄S·C₆H₈O₇ to treat erectile dysfunction in males, that by suppressing a phosphodiesterase enzyme also suppresses the enzyme's inhibitory effect on the hormone cyclic GMP, and that enables the cyclic GMP produced during sexual arousal to initiate the muscular and vascular changes which produce an erection. It is marketed under the trademarks Revatio and Viagra.

Etymology

Probably from s(ulfon)yl + -dena- (“alteration of (pyrimi)dine”) + ph(en)yl.

Example Sentences

• "Ellis opens a file from his stack. In 1991, he says, Pfizer wanted to test the safety of what came to be known as sildenafil."