According to a study conducted by scientists at University College London, it has been determined that cases of Alzheimer's are less common in men who use erectile dysfunction medication. The study was carried out by examining prescription records of more than 260 thousand men experiencing erectile dysfunction.
In the five-year study, men who used Viagra were compared with those who did not. While 8.1 out of every 10 thousand men who used the medication were diagnosed with dementia, this rate was determined to be 9.7 among those who did not. This indicates that the likelihood of developing dementia is 18 percent lower in men who use the medication.
Experts state that more tests are needed to directly prove the medication's effect in reducing the risk of Alzheimer's. Viagra was originally developed as a high blood pressure and heart medication to increase blood circulation. However, it was later discovered to be effective throughout the body, including the blood vessels in the penis.
In previous animal experiments, the medication was observed to have a protective effect on brain cells. Dr. Ruth Brauer, one of the directors of the study, states that further research will be conducted to confirm the findings. Scientists also express that they want to investigate whether the medication has a similar effect on women.
News Source: BBC
