Sildenafil (Viagra) was safe and effective for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) in patients with congestive heart failure (CHF), according to the results of a two-phase trial reported online Aug. 5 in a rapid access issue of Circulation. This study also suggests that sildenafil may even improve CHF symptoms and exercise tolerance.
“Heart failure patients may become noncompliant with their CHF treatment if they feel it causes or aggravates their ED,” lead author Edimar A. Bocchi, MD, from the Sao Paulo University Medical School in Brazil, says in a news release. “However, our study suggests that treating the ED may make patients more motivated to take their medicines.
” By blocking phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), sildenafil increases production of nitric oxide, which is associated with improved function of the heart and blood vessels. Although the cardiovascular effects of sildenafil and the potential risks of sexual activity triggering cardiovascular events have created some concern that the drug might be harmful in men with CHF, evidence-based guidelines are lacking.
תגובות רוצה להצטרף לדיון?
יש להתחבר כדי להגיב.
התחבראין תגובות עדיין. היה הראשון להגיב!