Erection pills may have benefits beyond sexual function.

A study in the World Journal of Men's Health reports that PDE5 inhibitors like Viagra may be linked with benefits for heart health, stroke risk, diabetes and urinary symptoms; an estimated 30–50 million U.S. men have erectile dysfunction and about 24% report taking medication.

New research reports that erectile dysfunction drugs known as PDE5 inhibitors, including Viagra, may have health effects beyond treating erections. These medications relax blood vessels and can increase blood flow throughout the body. A study published in the World Journal of Men's Health linked their use to possible benefits for heart disease, stroke risk, diabetes, and urinary symptoms related to enlarged prostate. Between 30 and 50 million men in the U.S. experience erectile dysfunction, and about 24 percent report taking medication. Key findings: - PDE5 inhibitors such as Viagra block an enzyme that tightens muscles and narrows blood vessels, causing blood vessel relaxation and increased blood flow. - The World Journal of Men's Health study reported links between PDE5 inhibitor use and improved heart health, reduced stroke risk, and benefits related to diabetes. - Researchers reported improvements in urinary symptoms and enlarged prostate, likely due to muscle relaxation in the bladder and prostate. - Previous research has suggested that erectile dysfunction medication use may be associated with a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. - An estimated 30–50 million U.S. men have erectile dysfunction, yet only about 24 percent report taking medication. Summary: The study suggests PDE5 inhibitors could have broader effects on vascular and urinary health, which may be relevant given the high prevalence of erectile dysfunction. Undetermined at this time.