Sildenafil, the generic name for Viagra, was first developed as a means of treating angina. When its users reported that the drug had a seemingly miraculous effect on erectile dysfunction, researchers at Pfizer, the drug's manufacturer, wondered if it would have similar effects on women. After eight years of testing 3,000 women, Pfizer decided to abandon the research. Viagra caused outward signs of arousal such as increased blood flow to the clitoris, but it did not increase sexual willingness or desire. Pfizer thus abandoned their research.
Sexual dysfunction is not the only use for Viagra. Sildenafil in the form of Revatio is also used by both men and women for treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension. The drug does, however, have some side effects. Some are specific to women, while others affect both genders.
Viagra and Antidepressants
Despite
the less than impressive results of research about Viagra's effects on
women, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical
Association indicate that Viagra can mitigate the effects of
antidepressant-associated sexual dysfunction. The study involved 98
women who, despite overall mood improvements from antidepressants, were
still experiencing sexual problems. The women agreed to try to have sex
at least once a week. The results indicated that 72 percent of the women
taking Viagra noticed improvements in their sex drive. In contrast,
only 27 percent of the women taking the placebo reported any sort of
improvement.
Headaches
Forty three percent of the women in the Viagra group reported headaches, compared to 27 percent of the women taking the placebo.
Flushing or Skin Reddening
Flushing or reddening of the skin was also reported amongst some of the patients in the experiment.
Nausea and Indigestion
Some women in the study experienced nausea and indigestion.
Vision and Hearing Problems
Consumer Reports medical adviser Dr. Martin LIttman reports that Viagra may cause vision and/or hearing problems.
BY: MotherOfAllBombs
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