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Viagra makes it hard to forget! Study shows erectile dysfunction drug may help ward off dementia The little blue pill could help symptoms of vascular dementia, scientists say READ MORE: The OTHER health benefits of Viagra from Alzheimer's to jet lag By Rebecca Whittaker For Mailonline Published: 12:14, 7 June 2024 | Updated: 12:16, 7 June 2024 e-mail 30 View comments Viagra may help prevent dementia by boosting blood flow in the brain, scientists say. The erectile dysfunction drug sildenafil — the active ingredient in medications like Viagra — helps men maintain erections by increasing blood flow to the penis. But the ingredient can also boost brain function by having a similar effect on the organ's blood vessels, an Oxford University trail suggests.

This discovery could provide a new therapy for the estimated 180,000 Brits living with vascular dementia, which is caused by restricted blood flow to the brain. Confusion, problems concentrating and finding it hard to keep balance are all telltale signs of the condition, according to the NHS . Packets of sildenafil costs just £15, meaning it could prove to be a cheap way to help treat the condition.



The erectile dysfunction drug which improves blood flow in men also boosts function in their brain blood vessels Vascular dementia affects about 180,000 people in the UK and feeling confused, having problems with concentration and finding it hard to keep balance are all telltale signs of the condition Dr Alastair Webb, a neurolog.

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