Now Reading: Viagra may slow cancer spread, early study suggests
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Viagra may slow cancer spread, early study suggests
A new study from the Weizmann Institute of Science, published in Cancer Research, suggests that sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, may slow the spread of cancer by disrupting how cancer cells…
The Story in Brief
A new study from the Weizmann Institute of Science, published in Cancer Research, suggests that sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, may slow the spread of cancer by disrupting how cancer cells process cholesterol. The drug appears to make it harder for cancer cells to migrate and form secondary tumours, a process known as metastasis that accounts for most cancer deaths.
The study also found that combining sildenafil with statins, common cholesterol-lowering drugs, enhanced the effect. However, the research is preclinical and scientists say human trials are needed to determine safety, dosage and which cancers might benefit. Patients should not use Viagra for cancer outside clinical trials.
The Indian Opinion
The promise of a cheap, repurposed drug like Viagra is exciting, but the headlines risk tempting patients to bypass their oncologists. This is a lab study, not a cure. Drug repurposing can accelerate treatment, but it still requires rigorous human trials to prove efficacy and safety. Until randomised controlled trials report on specific cancers, the only responsible advice is to follow evidence-based care. The real question is whether these cholesterol pathways matter in human tumours.
Source: timesnownews.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
