Bodybuilders are known to “ the pump,” which refers to cellular swelling: the practice of encouraging blood to pool in your muscles, leading to a temporary boost in size and vascularity and an acceleration of long-term growth (gains). PDE5 inhibition has been shown to increase pumps and gains by augmenting the capacity to “dilate the skeletal muscle vasculature.” Other research has shown tadalafil may increase abdominal lean mass (muscle), likely due to the medication’s effects on insulin secretion, estrogen levels, and endothelial function. And yet another study shows PDE5 inhibition can double muscle growth in response to exercise.

Anabolic steroids are commonly used to enhance athletic performance, but such enhancements come at a major cost. Side effects of steroids include breast growth, enlarged prostate, testicular shrinkage, acne, aggression, and infertility. And though PDE5 inhibitors like tadalafil and vardenafil may not provide the pronounced gains of anabolic steroids, they won’t cause the harmful side effects either. PDE5 inhibitors have minimal side effects that rarely lead to discontinuation, and may include mild headache, bloating, and rhinitis. 

Research indicates that drugs like tadalafil and vardenafil may improve the body’s response to exercise by speeding up recovery and helping you meet your fitness goals faster. This study found that PDE5 inhibition reduces arterial stiffness in the recovery period after exercise when compared to placebo. And this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that men who took tadalafil had higher levels of testosterone and cortisol following exercise, a hormonal combination which helps the body adapt to exercise more effectively.

From high blood pressure to urinary tract dysfunction, PDE5 inhibition has been found to slow or halt the progression of chronic disorders to help you maintain good health. One study found that the long-term administration of tadalafil reduced arteriosclerosis, a vascular disease, and relieved dysuria (painful, difficult urination) while improving erectile function. These results were found to be more prominent in older men and those at high risk of cardiovascular events. Other research shows that taking tadalafil may also lower or “normalize” inflammation in patients with vascular disease.