In a groundbreaking study published this year, 2024, in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, researchers have presented compelling evidence that sildenafil, commonly known by its brand name Viagra and used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, may also offer protective benefits against Alzheimer’s disease. Spearheaded by Feixiong Cheng, PhD, director of the Cleveland Clinic Genome Center, the study leverages extensive real-world patient data analysis alongside advanced mechanistic studies to suggest a new potential use for this well-known medication. This is a link that many have spoken about but few evidence has been shown... until now.
The study meticulously analyzed patient data from two significant databases, the MarketScan Medicare Supplemental database spanning from 2012 to 2017 and the Clinformatics database from 2007 to 2020. By employing propensity score-stratified analyses, which were carefully adjusted for gender, age, race, and existing comorbidities, the researchers sought to understand the impact of sildenafil use on Alzheimer's prevalence and incidence.
Their findings were revealing. Patients who took sildenafil exhibited a 30% to 54% reduced prevalence of Alzheimer's disease compared to those who did not use the drug, even after adjusting for potential confounding factors. Specifically, sildenafil use was associated with a 54% reduced incidence of AD in the MarketScan database and a 30% reduced prevalence of AD in the Clinformatics database when compared with users of spironolactone, one of the control drugs studied.
To delve deeper into the potential mechanisms behind sildenafil's protective effects against Alzheimer's, the team conducted experiments on neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) of AD patients. These cells, both from familial and sporadic cases of Alzheimer's, showed a significant reduction in tau hyperphosphorylation—a hallmark of Alzheimer’s pathology—when treated with sildenafil in a dose-dependent manner.
Further bolstering their hypothesis, RNA-sequencing data analysis of these sildenafil-treated neurons revealed that the drug specifically targets genes and pathobiological pathways associated with Alzheimer's, providing a mechanistic basis for its beneficial effects.
While previous studies have hinted at the potential protective effects of phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i), such as sildenafil, on Alzheimer's risk, the research community has seen some debate, highlighted by a study in Brain Communications in late 2022 that found no link between ED medications and reduced Alzheimer's risk. Despite these conflicting reports, the comprehensive approach and findings of the current study add significant weight to the argument for repurposing sildenafil as a treatment option for Alzheimer's.
Dr. Cheng's team utilized artificial intelligence to integrate data across multiple domains, underscoring sildenafil's promise against this devastating neurological disease. "Our findings provide further weight to repurposing this existing FDA-approved drug as a novel treatment for Alzheimer's, which is in great need of new therapies," stated Cheng in a recent news release.
With these promising results, the research team believes there is a strong case for conducting clinical trials to further explore sildenafil's effectiveness in patients with Alzheimer's disease. As the global community continues to seek new therapies for Alzheimer’s—a disease that affects millions worldwide—the potential repurposing of sildenafil represents a hopeful avenue of investigation, potentially offering a new beacon of hope for patients and their families.
This Study Shows Where People Need to Be Touched
Touching is vital for human development in children, and it's also vital for the strength of familial and romantic relationships. Learn more here.
Evolution Isn’t Over: New Anatomical Feature In Humans
A new study reveals evolution is far from over. In fact, humans are developing a new anatomical feature: a third artery in the arms
Can Probiotics Improve Mental Health? Research Says YES
Studies repeatedly show that probiotics can be a potentially effective treatment for several mental health issues. This is what is currently known on the topic.
New Study: There is a Sure Way to Slow Aging
This new study confirms what has long been suspected: The less calories we consume, the slower we age.
Birds Might Have Conscious Experiences, New Studies Reveal
Two grounbraking studies of birds brain structure reveal that avian and mammal brains are more similar than we thought - birds might even be self consious!
How to Maximize Productivity With Study Planner Apps
These apps are designed to help students organize their study schedules, track their progress, and ultimately achieve their academic goals with greater ease.
5 Common Myths About Sugar We Must Stop Believing
In this video, we discover the truth behind 5 of the most common myths about sugar.
Say Goodbye to Your Double Chin with These 5 Exercises
These 5 exercises will help give your chin a tighter, younger, and healthier look, and eventually to help you get rid of a double chin all together.
This Diet Slows Down Hearing Loss
Certain diets can preserve and maintain good hearing while slowing hear loss.
This Doctor Tried the Keto Diet and This is What He Thinks
Curious to try the KETO Diet? Listen to what a doctor has to say first.
9 Things Your Fingernails Can Tell You About Your Health
This video delves into nine revealing aspects of your fingernails that could signal important information about your health.
This Infograph Gives Terrific Info on Fruits and Veggies
This chart should be printed and hanged in every kitchen in the world.
Heart Arrhythmia: What is it and How to Live With It
In this video, we'll explain what arrhythmias are, their different types, and how to manage them.
Is This New Drug a Revolution in Slowing Down Alzheimer's?
n the ongoing battle against Alzheimer's disease, a new development presents a beacon of hope.
9 Effective Ways to Make Your Nausea Go Away
Nausea is that unpleasant feeling of discomfort inside your stomach, oftentimes leading to vomiting. Use one of these natural methods to stop it.
10 Simple Habit Changes Will Help You Quickly Lose Weight
Ten easy to follow habit changes that will help you take down those pounds much sooner.
IMPORTANT: This is the One Thing Every Diabetic Should Do
You can help avoid diabetic neuropathy by following these tips.
Is a Diet High in Fiber an Effective Anti-Inflammatory?
Fiber is an essential part of our diet, for more reasons than just bowel movement.
The 6 Best Artery-Cleansing Vitamins and Supplements
These vitamins and supplements will help keep your arteries clean.
The Complete Map to Our Most Important Pressure Points!
According to ancient oriental beliefs, every organ in the human body has a representative pressure point in the hand and the foot. Find out all about them here.
If You're Not Using Sunscreen, After This Video You Will
This fantastic video shows you how your skin looks in UV light, revealing future sun-damage to it.
The 10 Most Effective Exercises for Neck Pain Relief
Get quick relief from a stiff neck with these easy stretches.
Warning: The Places Bacteria Hides...
The truth about hand washing and the spread of bacteria. This could keep you healthy longer!
Alzheimer's And Meat Eating: Addressing the Connection
Does eating a lot of meat have a connection to Alzheimer's? We examine the evidence.
Ear Check: How Old is Your Hearing?
Try this handy and quick hearing test to see if your hearing is impaired, old for your age or younger than you!
10 Instant Self-Checks Worth Performing Regularly at Home
Our body can give certain signs we don't always realize are indications of a bad health or disease - learn 10 brilliant ways of checking out your body for these signs regularly from home.
The Health Benefits of Waking Up to Lemon Water
Lemon water is nutritious, here is why you should drink water with lemon every day.
Hemorrhoids: How to Treat Them the Natural Way
In this article you will find out what are the causes of the problem, what are its symptoms, how to alleviate it in natural ways as well as other ways to deal with its symptoms.
3 One Minute Tricks to Fix Your Nightmare Back Pains
Do you have back pain as a result of prolonged sitting? Here are 3 easy techniques you can try anywhere.
Struggling With Obesity? These Exercises Can Help a Lot
Struggling with obesity? Doing these exercises can change your life for the better.
Can Exercise Really Stop Heart Attacks?
Find out some of the best ways to prevent and reduce a risk of having a heart attack.
This 1-Minute Headache Technique is Incredible!
There are 3 natural methods that you can do to get rid of your headache in minutes!
Is Your Keyboard Hurting Your Wrists? Here’s How to Fix It
Did you know that your keyboard can damage your wrists? This video shows how to use it safely and 3 exercises that to counteract the damage
This Tasty Drink Will Help You Shed Those Extra Pounds
If you struggle to lose weight, this healthy and tasty drink could be the answer to your prayers!
Let's Talk About the Anti-Cancer Benefit of Sweet Potatoes
Lets Talk About the Anti-Cancer Potential of Sweet Potatoes
You Are What You Eat: How Foods You Eat Affect Your Mood
In recent years we discovered how incredibly important a good diet is in preventing neurodegenerative diseases. Here's how it works.
Here’s How You Can Lose the Fat UNDERNEATH Your Belly
Visceral fat is found inside your abdominal cavity. Getting rid of it can be a challenge, but not if you follow these simple tips.
Lose Weight by Using This Japanese Breathing Technique
This extraordinary deep-breathing weight-loss technique is known as the Japanese breathing technique to losing weight.
Important: The Dangers of Mixing Drugs Explained
What happens when we mix these drugs? Find out in this informative video.
9 Misleading Myths About High Blood Pressure
In this article, we dispel 9 misleading hypertension myths, so that we’re able to understand it more and take better care of ourselves and our loved ones.
How to Effectively Improve Leg Circulation by About 75%
Here’s how you can improve blood circulation in your legs and feet effectively.
MUST WATCH: Full-Body Chair Workout Guide for Seniors
This full chair workout for seniors covers every area of your body!
Memory Not Working? The Answer May Be Hiding in Your Sleep
If you want to remember better, this lecture will tell you - The answer is in your sleep.
Doctor Tip: How to Prevent Ingrown Hair
In this insightful video, Dr. Adedeji shares her expertise on preventing ingrown hairs.
Your Kidneys Are So Vital - This is What You Need to Know
Have you ever wanted to know just what it is that your kidneys actually do? Here is the information you've been waiting for.
The Symptoms of a Fatty Liver and How to Treat it!
Fatty deposits on your liver can seriously hinder its function. In this video, Dr. Berg explains the symptoms of a fatty liver and how to treat it.
I Never Knew That Cassia Cinnamon Is Poisonous!
Not all cinnamon is good for you. Shockingly, most of the cheap cinnamon, cassia, can cause liver damage. Here's how to avoid it.