As per research, it has been determined that the use of Viagra has been linked to the deaths of 522 patients in the first year of the drug being launched in the market. Ever since the drug was first launched in March 1998, millions of prescriptions have been given out for it by doctors. Yet, concerns have continued about the possibility of the drug causing heart conditions in some of its users. As it stands, patients currently taking nitrates are told not to take this drug
The relationship between Viagra and Deaths
Viagra is one of the most popular treatment options available for erectile dysfunction. However, the data from the research suggests that the number of dangerous cardiovascular events and deaths linked to the use of this drug is rather high. However, this does not imply in any way that this drug causes these conditions.
The numbers were determined by the FDA. These details were given to a cardiologist named Sanjay Kaul who had lodged a request under the Freedom of Information Act. As per the data, it has been determined that a total of 1473 major and adverse events have been linked with the use of Viagra. Among the 522 patients, 517 of them had experienced angina chest pain or heart attacks while using this drug.
Be that as it may, it is not possible to interpret the data unless compared to a similar population that is not using the drug. As a result, further research is necessary to determine the nature of the links between those events and Viagra use.
Patients suffering from erectile dysfunction should not panic, however. Viagra is typically safe for patients at a low risk for cardiovascular conditions. Nonetheless, doctors should determine and evaluate the cardiac risk of the patients before this drug is prescribed for their ED problems.
Another study on this medication has found different results. In that research, two groups of people were studied. One group consisted of 4500 participants and they were given Viagra. The second group had 3100 patients and they were given a placebo. It was discovered that the rates of deaths and cardiac arrests were low in the group using sildenafil. In fact, there was no difference in the two groups.
How Does Viagra Affect the Cardiovascular System?
In order to understand the effects of Viagra on the cardiovascular system, it is important to first understand how it works in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. In fact, patients should understand the link from their doctor before purchasing it from a drugstore like Canadian Health&Care Mall.
On consumption, sildenafil causes the body to start producing a higher amount of a chemical known as nitric oxide. This chemical is responsible for the dilation of the blood vessels. By increasing its levels, the agent relaxes the blood vessels in the body. This improves the flow of blood inside the body including in the penile region.
As erections are dependent on a proper blood flow, the presence of more blood in the penile region causes the patient to achieve an erection more easily and faster. The patient is also able to maintain the erection for a longer period of time. As a result, erectile dysfunction is no longer a problem.
However, as Viagra changes the state of the cardiovascular system, it can cause a number of problems in it. Heart attacks and low blood pressure are two of the effects of this erectile dysfunction problem.
When Should Viagra Not Be Taken?
As a result, it is critical that Viagra is not used in certain conditions. Otherwise, the effects can be quite dangerous. Here are some of the situations in which the use of the drug should be avoided.
- Patients who have a history of heart conditions;
- Patients who are taking nitrates;
- Patients who are using alpha-blockers.
Patients should consult with their doctors to find an alternative treatment for their ED problems.
What Are the Other ED Drugs Available?
There are quite a few ED drugs available these days from Canadian Health&Care Mall some of which are listed below.
- Cialis;
- Levitra;
- Staxyn;
- Stendra
All the drugs, mentioned above, work in a similar manner. As a result, precautions must be taken while using them. More importantly, the doctor must be consulted before use.