Title:Role of Nutraceuticals in Treating Erectile Dysfunction via Inhibition of
Phosphodiesterase-5 Enzyme: A Mini Review
Volume: 25
Issue: 15
Author(s): Rashi Kulshrestha, Neelam Singla, Obaid Afzal, Ahsas Goyal, Mahendra Saini, Abdulmalik Saleh Alfawaz Altamimi, Waleed Hassan Almalki, Imran Kazmi, Fahad Al-Abbasi, Sami I. Alzarea and Gaurav Gupta*
Affiliation:
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jagatpura, Mahal Road, Jaipur, India
- Centre for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College, Saveetha Institute of Medical
and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, India
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun
248007, India
Keywords:
Nutraceuticals, erectile dysfunction, PDE-5-inhibitors, oxidative stress, male sexual disorder, flavonoid.
Abstract: Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a prevalent sexual health condition affecting a significant
portion of the male population worldwide. The conventional therapeutic approaches for ED often
involve the use of pharmaceutical agents targeting the phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) enzyme.
Currently, treatment with PDE-5 inhibitors is the standard approach for ED, and four PDE-5
inhibitors, namely sildenafil, vardenafil, tadalafil, and avanafil, are in use. However, these pharmaceutical
interventions may be associated with adverse effects and limitations. As a result,
there has been a growing interest in exploring alternative and complementary treatment options
for ED, such as nutraceuticals, which are bioactive compounds derived from natural sources.
Nutraceuticals, which include vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other dietary supplements, have
gained popularity for their potential health benefits. Certain nutraceuticals have demonstrated the
ability to modulate various physiological pathways, including those involved in erectile function.
A notable mechanism of action is the inhibition of the PDE5 enzyme, which plays a pivotal role
in the regulation of cGMP levels. By inhibiting PDE5, nutraceuticals can promote the accumulation
of cGMP, leading to enhanced penile blood flow and improved erectile function. A comprehensive
analysis of the literature showcases various nutraceutical agents, including plant-derived
compounds like flavonoids, polyphenols, and amino acids which have exhibited PDE5 inhibitory
effects. Mechanistic insights into their action involve modulation of NO release, cGMP elevation,
and relaxation of penile smooth muscles, all critical factors for achieving and sustaining
erections. This review focuses on elucidating the role of nutraceuticals in treating erectile dysfunction
through the inhibition of the PDE5 enzyme.
