Friday, May 21, 2010

Viagra Linked to Hearing Loss

Viagra, and possibly other oral erectile dysfunction drugs, may prompt long-term hearing loss among users, a new study suggests.

The finding stems from an analysis of survey data concerning more than 11,500 men over the age of 40 that had been collected by the federal Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality between 2003 and 2006.

Gerald McGwin, a professor of epidemiology in the University of Alabama and his team found that men who said they used phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor drugs had twice the risk for developing hearing loss as those who did not.

The authors suggests that one possible explanation could lie in the original purpose of these medications. They note that although now used mainly for erectile dysfunction, this class of drugs was initially prescribed for the treatment of pulmonary high blood pressure.

PDE5 inhibitor medications work in erectile dysfunction patients by their ability to increase blood flow to certain tissues in the body and it has been hypothesized that they may have a similar effect on similar tissues in the ear, where an increase of blood flow could potentially cause damage leading to hearing loss.

It appears from these findings that the 2007 warning by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration regarding hearing loss and the use of PDE5 inhibitor medications is warranted.

"Though there are limitations to this study, it is prudent that patients using these medications be warned about the signs and symptoms of hearing impairment and be encouraged to seek immediate medical attention to potentially forestall permanent damage," McGwin cautions.

Journal reference:

Gerald McGwin Jr. Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitor Use and Hearing Impairment. Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2010;136(5):488-492.

Zestzfulness says:

PDE5 inhibitors are safe and effective for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (ED) when taken according to the labeling. However, all drugs carry risks and you should discuss any concerns you have regarding taking these products with your healthcare provider.

Is there an alternative drug for me that doesn't have this possible side effect?

We have a topical gel that is receiving enthusiastic endorsements for efficacy and an increase IVELT*.

Look up “The Truth about Bananas (and Orchids too)”

* Intra vaginal ejaculation latency time (IVELT) is defined as the time between the start of vaginal intromission and the start of intravaginal ejaculation. A longer IVELT means you can “tahan lebih lama” lah! :-)

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2 comments:

  1. In fact, most drugs have adverse effects on our health, though they are claimed to be effective in this and that with side effects that are mild or rare.
    It is better to consume the right health products to strengthen our body especially the immune system. Of course we need good rest and regular exercise.

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  2. My BabyBoomer uncle told me that with Zestz Moisturising Gel he has been able to quarter his dose of sildenafil and avoid the usual stuffy nose he experienced when taking the whole tablet. Aaron

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