A common form of Dementia is Alzheimer’s disease (AD). According to a study, Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate) may be a potential treatment for AD. In this document, we will talk about the connection between Sildenafil Citrate and Alzheimer’s disease.
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD)
A brain condition that destroys thinking skills and memory is called AD. This health condition could affect an individual’s ability to perform daily tasks. AD is also a common cause of Dementia. In this condition, it is a gradual decline in behavior, thinking, memory, and social skills. The brain begins to shrink and thereby, brain cells are dying. There is no medicine that can cure AD but some drugs may lessen the symptoms of this disease.
Symptoms
Memory loss is a common symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. This health condition occurs usually in people 65 years old or older. Some early symptoms of AD include problems remembering conversations or recent events. Those who experience AD may easily forget in the early stage. On the other hand, in later stages, patients with AD may forget close friends and family. Patients with this disorder may:
- Problems with finding the right words, expressing feelings, or participating in conversations
- Get lost in places where they used to know well
- Misplace things and mostly keep them in places that do not make sense
- Forget appointments and events
- Forget family members, names, and everyday objects over time
- Repeat questions and sentences again and again
This health condition could affect a person’s behavior and moods. It means that they may start doubting others, lose interest in activities, or feel depressed. Commonly, AD symptoms are different among patients and it is not sure that you will face all of them. However, many diseases may lead to memory loss or other symptoms of Dementia. Talk with a doctor if you are worried about memory loss or other brain functions.
Viagra and Alzheimer’s Disease
The first FDA-approved medicine to treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED) in males is Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate). This medicine belongs to the class of medications called phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE-5) inhibitors. Physicians usually prescribe this medicine to help men recover the ability to get and maintain hard erections. Sildenafil Citrate works by relaxing the muscles in the genital area and improving blood flow through penis tissues, causing a hard erection.
Moreover, there is no direct connection between Viagra and this disorder. However, a recent study suggests that Sildenafil Citrate is a potential method of treatment for AD. In addition, patients who use blood pressure or heart medications, should not use Viagra due to a higher risk of severe adverse reactions (such as extremely low blood pressure).
Sildenafil Citrate and Alzheimer’s Study
Research by Cleveland Clinic’s Genome identified that Sildenafil Citrate decreased the risk of AD. They analyzed data from more than 7000 people and determined that Viagra may also improve memory in a preclinical model of Alzheimer’s disease.
Approximately 70% of people less likely to develop Alzheimer’s Disease
According to research, roughly 70% of people administering Sildenafil Citrate had less chance of developing AD. They also determined that Sildenafil Citrate targeted Tau protein, which elevated brain cell growth.
Can I Use Viagra for Alzheimer’s Disease?
Sildenafil Citrate is mainly used to treat ED in males. However, recent studies showed that Viagra could be more than an ED drug. Healthcare professionals may prescribe this medicine for AD soon. However, the use of Viagra for Alzheimer’s Disease is still controversial and needs more research. Anyway, before using any medications that help to decrease AD, consult a physician.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Viagra to slow down Alzheimer’s disease?
There is not enough evidence that Sildenafil Citrate can treat AD. This medicine is usually used to treat erectile dysfunction in men. Furthermore, according to a DREAM study, this drug does not decrease the risk of AD.
Is erectile dysfunction a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease?
According to a 1990 study, more than half of the participants who suffered from AD also experienced erectile function problems. In any case, it is not sure that ED is associated with Alzheimer’s disease. For more details, talk with a healthcare provider.
Does Viagra increase blood flow to the brain?
Sildenafil Citrate helps men to recover the ability to get and sustain an erection. It works by widening blood vessels, allowing more blood through penis tissues. In some cases, this medicine may affect blood vessels in the brain, which may result in an increase in blood flow to the brain. However, talk with a physician before using Viagra, no matter for ED or AD.
