New Delhi: Sildenafil, a blue pill which is popularly known as Viagra, is a commonly-used treatment for erectile dysfunction. However, a new study says that this pill has more benefits to offer – turns out, it can improve blood flow to the brain, enhance the functioning of the blood vessels in people who are more prone to vascular dementia. The research, carried out by experts at the University of Oxford, was published in the journal Circulation Research and is said to take pivotal steps towards managing dementia and consequent damage caused to brain tissues.
How does Viagra fight dementia risk?
Scientists discovered that Sildenafil can increase blood flow to the large and small vessels and this was monitored in ultrasounds and MRI scans. It further enhanced blood response to carbon dioxide indicating better cerebrovascular function. Additionally, it can lower blood vessel resistance in the brain when combined with cilostazol – side effects such as diarrhoea can also be combat with the same.
Researchers said that this trial is a first-of-its-kind to show that shows how sildenafil enters the blood vessels of the brain and improves flow. Researchers further added that these factors can combat chronic damage that may affect small blood vessles in the brain which is one of the leading causes of vascular dementia.
What is vascular dementia?
Vascular dementia is a condition which takes a toll on cognitive function, memory, judgement and other factors. This is owed to low blood supply to the brain which affects the brain tissues and damages it. Researchers noted in the study that vascular dementia lacks therapies at the moment and the report claims that chronic damage caused to small blood vessels in the brain not just leads to this condition but also contributes to 80% brain bleeds and 30% strokes.
The OxHARP trial involved 75 volunteers who had experienced a minor stroke and also showed signs of mild to moderal small vessel disease. Every participant in this case was give sildenafil, a placebo, and cilostazol for three weeks. Then with the help of MRI scans, experts came to the final conclusion.
Scientists discovered that Viagra/Sildenafil can increase blood flow to the large and small vessels and this was monitored in ultrasounds and MRI scans. It further enhanced blood response to carbon dioxide indicating better cerebrovascular function. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
