We knew the virtues of Viagra to compensate for erectile dysfunction, but now the little blue pill would have other advantages. This drug would be good for the heart. And could be used in the treatment of several heart diseases, according to an Italian study, conducted at Sapienza University in Rome and reported today by Le Figaro. “The results obtained suggest that, in humans, the long-term intake of Viagra provides protection at different stages of cardiac pathology, with very few side effects, writes journalist Jean-Luc Nothias.
To understand how the same drug can respond to two distinct pathologies, it is necessary to look, as everyday life does, at its mode of action. Pills prescribed for erectile dysfunction are composed of an active molecule (PDE5i) which inhibits an enzyme (PDE5). This is used to relax smooth muscles. Viagra therefore prevents this relaxation and has an effect on blood circulation.
The Italian team compared the results of 24 clinical trials including 1,622 patients treated with PDE5i or a placebo. The shape, size and behavior of the heart were taken into account. For the authors, “the active ingredient of Viagra can be used as an effective and safe treatment for people with heart disease”. Left ventricular hypertrophy and, more broadly, thickening of the heart muscle, Viagra could hold new promises in cardiac performance. Even if additional studies are necessary, the researchers go even further by wondering whether women should not be included in future trials!