Introduction: Recent controlled trials have assessed the efficacy of phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors in secondary Raynaud's phenomenon (RP). However, the conclusions are conflicting, and whether these drugs are effective remains unclear. The objective of this meta-analysis was to determine the efficacy of PDE-5 inhibitors on Raynaud's Condition Score (RCS) and frequency and duration of attacks.
Methods: A systematic review of articles was performed (sources included Medline, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials). Only double-blind, randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Studies were selected independently by two authors using predefined data fields, including study quality indicators.
Results: Six RCTs were included (one with sildenafil, one with modified-release sildenafil, three with tadalafil and one with vardenafil). PDE-5 inhibitors significantly decreased mean RCS by -0.46 (-0.74 to -0.17) (p=0.002), the daily frequency of ischaemic attacks by -0.49 (-0.71 to -0.28) (p<0.0001), and daily duration of RP attacks by -14.62 (-20.25 to -9.00) min (p<0.0001).
Conclusions: PDE-5 inhibitors appear to have significant but moderate efficacy in secondary RP. A further large RCT is needed.
Keywords: Cardiovascular Disease; Outcomes research; Systemic Sclerosis.