Imidazo[5,1-f]triazin-4(3H)-ones, a new class of potent PDE 5 inhibitors.

2-aryl-substituted imidazo[5,1-f][1,2,4]triazin-4(3H)-ones represent a new class of potent cGMP-PDE 5 inhibitors that prove to be superior to other purine-isosteric inhibitors. Subnanomolar inhibitors of PDE 5 with activity in in vivo models for erectile dysfunction have been identified. BAY 38-9456 (Vardenafil-hydrochloride) has been selected for clinical studies in the indication of erectile dysfunction.