Effects of vardenafil on intraocular pressure and orbital hemodynamics

Abstract

\Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of vardenafil on systemic blood pressure, intraocular pressure (IOP), and orbital hemodynamics. Methods: Twenty-one (21) volunteers suffering erectile dysfunction, with an average age of 51.5 +/- 6.2 years, were enrolled into the study. Brachial blood pressures and IOP were measured, the peak systolic velocity (PSV), end-diastolic velocity (EDV), and resistive index (RI) of the ophthalmic, central retinal, and posterior ciliary arteries were evaluated by color Doppler ultrasonography (CDU) before vardenafil intake. All measurements were repeated after 20 min of vardenafil intake. A paired Student t test was used to evaluate the changes. Results: Systolic blood pressure did not change significantly where diastolic blood pressure decreased significantly (P = 0.043) after drug ingestion. There was no significant change in IOP. Increase in EDV of CRA was significant (P = 0.04), but the increase of orbital blood flow velocities of OA and PCA were insignificant. Conclusions: The recommended dose of vardenafil has no negative effects on orbital hemodynamics and IOP in patients with erectile dysfunction.