How dangerous are Viagra side effects? Over the past several years, research studies have ping-ponged back and forth on whether Pfizer’s erectile dysfunction drug Viagra (sildenafil citrate) is linked with melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer.
The most recent study, released in February 2016 by the medical journal Cell Reports, finds that Viagra may indeed encourage melanoma to multiply and explains the biological causes behind the unfortunate Viagra side effect.
Viagra Cuts the Brakes on the Body’s Natural Cancer Fighter
Past studies have linked Viagra with increased risk of melanoma and now researchers from University of Tübingen in Germany have figured out its method of action. While experimenting with human cells and animals, the study showed that a key biological “braking” system which keeps melanoma cells in check is compromised by Viagra.
- Normally, a cell enzyme called PDE5 interferes with the growth of melanoma cells, acting as a brake and preventing them from multiplying.
- However, Viagra inhibits PDE5, allowing cancer cells to get around the braking system and stimulating skin tumors to grow more vigorously.
The Link Between Viagra and Melanoma
Viagra, patented by the pharma giant Pfizer, hit the US prescription drug market in 1998. Since then several studies have been conducted on whether an increased risk in malignant melanoma is a Viagra side effect.
- In June 2014, a group of Harvard researchers found a correlation between melanoma and Viagra and recommended further research be done on the topic.
- A year later, Swedish and NYU researchers muddied the waters a bit. Their conclusion stated that they found a “statistically significant” link between this type of skin cancer and Viagra, but wouldn’t go so far as to say that the link was causal.
Pfizer Denies the Skin Cancer Link
A spokesman for Pfizer told the British newspaper The Telegraph: ” We believe there is no reliable scientific evidence that sildenafil citrate [Viagra] causes melanoma.
Although Viagra has been on the US market for 18 years, there is no generic version of the drug available. The US patent is due to expire in 2020. Brand-name Viagra can cost up to $30 per pill on a health insurance plan and about $45 per pill for the full retail price.
If you’re taking Viagra and you have melanoma or want to find out if a health problem you’re experiencing is a known Viagra side effect, learn more here.
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