Does Viagra Cause Strokes?
Viagra, or sildenafil citrate, is a medication most commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It is one of the most popular sexual enhancers on the market. Since its introduction in 1998, it has been used to help men improve their sexual potency and attain stronger erections.
But since then, many questions have been raised about the potential risks of taking Viagra. Specifically, does it increase the risk of stroke?
Does Viagra Increase the Risk of Stroke?
The short answer is no. While there have been some reports of an increased risk of stroke associated with Viagra, these reports are rare and have not been confirmed by any large-scale studies.
In fact, according to a 2018 study published in the medical journal Circulation, Viagra does not appear to be associated with an increased risk of stroke. The study looked at over 2,000 patients who took Viagra and found that their risk of stroke was no higher than that of those who did not take the drug.
However, it is important to note that there are some potential side effects associated with taking Viagra. These include headache, flushing, upset stomach, and dizziness. It is also possible that taking Viagra may increase the risk of low blood pressure, heart attack, and vision problems.
Who Should Avoid Taking Viagra?
Viagra should not be taken by anyone who has had a stroke or other cardiovascular event in the past 6 months. It should also be avoided by people who are taking certain medications, such as nitrates for chest pain or alpha-blockers for high blood pressure.
Additionally, people with certain medical conditions should talk to their doctor before taking Viagra. These conditions include:
- Heart disease
- High or low blood pressure
- Liver or kidney disease
- History of stroke or heart attack
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Severe allergies
- Eye problems
- Retinitis pigmentosa
It is also important to note that Viagra should not be taken by women. The drug has not been tested on women and could be dangerous to their health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is no evidence that taking Viagra increases the risk of stroke. However, there are some potential side effects associated with taking the drug, so it is important to talk to your doctor before taking it. Additionally, people with certain medical conditions or who are taking certain medications should avoid taking Viagra.
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