Alzheimer's disease, a rapidly progressive brain disease, is considered the leading cause of dementia. In the US, approximately 5.5 million (55 lakh) people are affected by the disease and there are expected to be more than 24 million patients worldwide. This brain disease can lead to memory loss, thinking problems, and confusion over time. If Alzheimer's is not treated on time, it can increase the risk of dementia. Statistics show that the cases of this disease have increased in the last few years in India.
Health experts say many lifestyle factors can increase the risk of Alzheimer's, all people should keep protecting themselves from this disease.
The team of scientists studying the treatment of Alzheimer's patients has achieved great success. Researchers said that Viagra, a drug commonly used for erectile dysfunction or impotence, may help reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Viagra can be beneficial
In a report published in the journal Neurology, researchers found that men who were given Viagra or similar drugs had an 18 percent lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Additionally, scientists found a 44 percent reduced risk of Alzheimer's in those who were given Viagra pills 21 to 50 times during the study.
Researchers said cases of Alzheimer's disease have increased rapidly in the last few years in many countries. If this medicine is given in moderate quantity, keeping in mind the other health conditions of the patient, then the risk of this brain disease can be reduced.
What did the study find?
Medical records of more than 2.60 lakh participants who had erectile dysfunction were analyzed for this study. However, there was no evidence of memory loss or Alzheimer's disease. More than half of these people were taking PDE5 inhibitor drugs (Viagra). The participants were followed up for five years.
These drugs could help reduce abnormal proteins in the brain, which are more commonly seen in Alzheimer's patients, says the study's lead author, Dr. Ruth Brauer, of the University College London.
These medicines protect brain cells
PDE5 inhibitor drugs were originally developed to treat angina and high blood pressure, but over time, their effects have led to their use in treating erectile dysfunction as well. Animal studies show that it improves blood flow to the brain, which may help prevent Alzheimer's. PDE5 inhibitors increase levels of a compound called cGMP, which may also help protect brain cells. In such a situation, its use can reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
What do researchers say?
In conclusion of the study, researchers said, studies are being conducted to understand the use of PDE5 inhibitors. If there is evidence of benefit in Alzheimer's from PDE5 inhibitors, it could help men as well as women.
Oxford University researcher Dr. Ivan Koychev said the results of the study are important because the number of dementia patients is increasing. However, these medicines should not be taken without medical advice, as they can have serious side effects.
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