By its mode of action, the molecule prescribed against erectile dysfunction can promote the development of melanoma, according to German researchers.
Used for over 15 years for erectile dysfunction, Sildenafil – the active molecule of Viagra – may well promote the development of melanoma, according to a study published in Cell Reports. A team of researchers from the University of Tübingen (Germany) has shown that the drug’s mode of action inhibits processes that usually slow the development of these tumors.
A study of 15,000 Americans, carried out in 2014, had shown a link between Sildenafil and an increased risk of malignant melanoma. This correlation was confirmed in 2015 on 24,000 Swedes. Neither had yet succeeded in explaining this link other than by the lifestyle of the subjects. People taking Viagra were indeed more likely than the rest of the population to spend vacations in the sun and tan in UV cabins.
A molecule that promotes stimulated melanoma
Viagra works by inhibiting one molecule, PDE5, which itself inhibits another, cGPM. The presence of the latter is therefore increased when taking the little blue pill, and it is this which acts on the erection. “PDE5 acts as a brake on cGMP,” explains Professor Robert Feil of the University of Tübingen. When patients take Sildenafil, they turn off this brake. ”
German researchers have finally explained why this mechanism promotes melanoma. “We have discovered that malignant melanoma cells also use cGMP to grow,” reports Professor Feil. When the brake is released, melanoma grows faster.
Not enough to advise against Viagra
Professor Feil, however, tempers this discovery, believing that men should not be advised against occasional use of Sildenafil to treat erectile dysfunction. Although it can promote the development of skin cancers, it is not, however, responsible for their appearance.
“We speculate that Sildenafil, like other PDE5 inhibitors, could especially promote the growth of existing melanomas, especially if consumed frequently, and in high doses,” he said.
Especially since the molecule is likely to slow down the development of certain intestinal tumors for example, the benefit may therefore be found elsewhere. Patients with melanoma should still consult their doctor before considering using Viagra, advises the researcher. But UV protection is, according to him, much more important, because exposure to the sun is much more harmful than the effects of Viagra.
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