Vascular dementia is the second most common form of dementia, resulting from impaired blood flow or damaged blood vessels in the brain. New research suggests that Viagra, a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), may reduce the risk of developing dementia in at-risk individuals. The OxHARP trial studied the effects of sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, on blood vessels in the brain. The study showed positive changes in vessel behavior after participants took the drug for three weeks, laying the foundation for future clinical trials. The safety and potential for repurposing of Viagra make it an attractive candidate for reducing dementia risk.
Jose Morales, MD, a vascular neurologist, emphasized the importance of identifying risk factors and ways to reduce those risks, as there is currently no cure for dementia. One risk factor is cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD), which results in chronic damage to small blood vessels in the brain and can lead to strokes and dementia. The recent study recruited 75 participants with neurological signs of CSVD to test the effects of sildenafil, placebo, and cilostazol on cerebral blood flow and reactivity. While Viagra did not improve cerebral pulsatility, it did enhance cerebrovascular reactivity and resistance, as well as cerebral blood flow, compared to placebo.
Rakesh C. Kukreja, PhD, a professor of internal medicine, explained that Viagra inhibits an enzyme that breaks down a vasodilator molecule, promoting relaxation of blood vessels and improved blood flow. This mechanism could influence the risk of dementia by reducing vascular resistance in the brain. Earlier research in rodents and human populations supported the notion that Viagra usage was associated with improved cognitive function and reduced risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. While further research is needed to confirm these findings, focusing on lifestyle factors such as a healthy diet, exercise, and mental stimulation can also help reduce the risk of dementia.
Dr. Tim Beanland from the Alzheimer’s Society emphasized that a healthy lifestyle, including not smoking, moderate alcohol consumption, and regular exercise, can lower the risk of dementia and other related conditions. The study results suggest that sildenafil may have a positive impact on reducing the risk of vascular dementia, particularly in individuals with CSVD. However, the study only measured short-term changes in cerebral blood flow, and further research over a longer period is necessary to confirm the potential benefits of Viagra in reducing dementia risk. Alastair Webb, MSc, and his team plan to conduct larger trials to determine the optimal dose and drug within the Viagra group that could lead to a reduction in stroke and dementia risk in the long term.
In conclusion, the study provides promising insights into the potential of Viagra to reduce the risk of vascular dementia by improving blood flow in the brain. While further research is needed to validate these findings, Viagra’s safety profile and established mechanisms make it a viable candidate for repurposing to address vascular dementia risk factors. Lifestyle modifications, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, remain important factors in reducing the risk of dementia and related conditions. Follow-up studies are planned to assess the long-term effects of Viagra on reducing dementia risk and preventing cognitive decline in at-risk individuals.
