Given the protective effect of nitric oxide (NO) on the endothelium and the results obtained
so far in short-term, continuous treatment with phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors on
parameters of endothelial function, we hypothesise that chronic treatment with vardenafil can
prevent or delay the deterioration of systemic endothelial function in patients with type 2
diabetes mellitus. The favourable effect of PDE5 inhibitors on sexual function in these
patients has been convincingly demonstrated in the past. Here we hypothesise that vardenafil
treatment can have beneficial effects on the vascular physiology in other body districts,
possibly preventing the development of microangiopathy and atherosclerotic cardiovascular
disease in these patients.
The main goal of this study is therefore to monitor the endothelial dysfunction during
continuous treatment with vardenafil for 6 months; object of the study will be endothelin 1
and other known parameters of endothelial damage in newly diagnosed patients with type 2
diabetes mellitus.