Viagra, or sildenafil, is a form of medication that is used to treat erectile dysfunction in men. However, this drug may have lasting positive effects on children who may be suffering from a heart defect, specifically congenital heart defects.
Viagra and Congenital Heart Defects
Sildenafil works by improving blood flow to the body’s extremities. However, it can also increase blood flow to the lungs and other organs. First tested to see if sildenafil can help lower blood pressure, the drug is heralded as a potential life saver for those who are suffering from congenital deformities.
A study lead by Dr. David Goldberg, a pediatric cardiologist at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, assigned children and young adults to receive sildenafil or a placebo over the span of 6 weeks. The study has shown that there is a correlation between viagra and an improvement in myocardial performance index, or how efficient the heart’s overall ability to pump blood.
The study has been done, especially after it was noted that many adults have showed promising results for adults with heart failure. Published on the Journal Pediatric Cardiology, it was found the Viagra improved the heart function in children who survived heart disease palliation. The study was done on young adults and children were relatively healthy, with very little chance of sildenafil interacting with other forms of medication, or worsening the patient’s heart condition.
The effects of sildenafil can be used as a comprehensive approach to help children who are dealing with congenital heart disease. With the right approach, a child living with these sort of ailments can lead a health, happy life.
Even thought it may add somewhat awkward to prescribe Viagra to children, many doctors are getting on board with the treatment. Parents can ask that their prescription be mailed to them, adding a layer of privacy. Parents do not have to pick up the prescription at their local drugstore