NCIt definition : A benzenesulfonamide derivative and phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor with
vasodilatory activity. Vardenafil selectively inhibits PDE5, thus inhibiting the degradation
of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) found in the smooth muscle of the corpus
cavernosa and corpus spongiosum of the penis. The inhibition of cGMP degradation results
in prolonged muscle relaxation, vasodilation, and blood engorgement of the corpus
cavernosa, prolonging penile erection.;