Androgens and Erectile Dysfunction

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to androgens, erectile dysfunction, and the relevant pharmacology, helpful for understanding and memorizing critical information for the exam.

Androgens

Hormones that promote male sex characteristics; main endogenous androgen is testosterone.

Physiologic effects

Effects of androgens on growth, development, and functions in males and females.

Testosterone

Major endogenous androgen responsible for development of male sex characteristics.

Hypogonadism

Condition characterized by low testosterone levels, potentially treatable with androgen therapy.

Anabolic steroids

Synthetic derivatives of testosterone used to promote muscle growth and athletic performance.

Erythropoietin

Hormone synthesized due to androgen effects, increasing red blood cell production.

Virilization

Development of male physical characteristics in females or prepubescent boys due to excess androgens.

Spermatogenesis

Process of sperm cell development influenced by testosterone.

Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors

Class of drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction by enhancing blood flow to the penis.

Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection suitable for sexual intercourse.

Sildenafil (Viagra)

A PDE5 inhibitor used for treating erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Tadalafil (Cialis)

Another PDE5 inhibitor known for its prolonged duration of action for erectile dysfunction and BPH symptoms.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Nonmalignant enlargement of the prostate gland leading to urinary problems.

5-Alpha-reductase inhibitors

Medications that inhibit 5-alpha-reductase, used for treating BPH.

Alpha1-adrenergic antagonists

Drugs that block alpha1 receptors; used to treat BPH by relaxing smooth muscles in the bladder neck.

Gynecomastia

Development of breast tissue in males, a potential adverse effect of androgen therapy.

Testosterone therapy

Use of testosterone to treat low testosterone levels, especially in hypogonadism.

Androgen preparations

Various forms of testosterone used in clinical practice, including oral and transdermal.

Adverse effects of testosterone therapy

Potential negative side effects, including virilization, hepatotoxicity, and cardiovascular issues.

Nitroglycerin interaction

Risk of life-threatening hypotension when PDE5 inhibitors are taken with nitrates.

Clinical pharmacology

Study of drugs and their clinical applications, focusing on their effects, mechanisms, and side effects.