Viagra and Cancer

Viagra (Sildenafil) is a popupular pharmaceutical treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). It has long been known to have a number of negative side effects. For example, it frequently causes headaches. More importantly, it can cause abnormal hearing and vision, including vision loss that is sometimes permanent. Viagra can also cause cardiovascular events. And now, there’s another potentially serious side effect of Viagra. . . .

35,848 men were followed in a prospective study to see if there was an association between using Viagra and developing melanoma, a highly malignant form of skin cancer. Viagra was associated with a significant 84% increase in the risk of melanoma in men who had recently used it and a 92% increase in risk in men who had ever used it. 

Because this is a prospective population study, it is not the final word on Viagra and skin cancer. However, it is important to note that the researchers found that there was no altered risk of melanoma associated with erectile function itself. That adds weight to the evidence that it is the Viagra, and not the condition, that is associated with the skin cancer.

The researchers concluded that Viagra may be associated with an increased risk of melanoma.

For more information on erectile dysfunction and the safe, natural alternatives to Viagra, see our book, Sex & Fertility: Natural Solutions.

JAMA Intern Med 2014;174:964-70