VAC – The trouble with the little blue pill
Most readers will quickly identify Viagra as the little blue pill. Approved in 1998 for treatment of erectile dysfunction, it has been widely marketed with witty and humorous campaigns.
There is also substantial evidence of its use recreationally. In the 2010 Melbourne Gay Community Periodic Survey, 16 percent of those surveyed reported having used it in the previous six months. This is up from 10 percent in 2004.
Other research reported that men who use Viagra and other erectile dysfunction drugs, like Cialis and Levitra, are four times more likely to experience condom breakage than other men. Of 440 men surveyed, about 10 percent had used an erectile dysfunction drug before and of those, 12 percent reported condom breakage, compared to only 5 percent of men who didn鈥檛 use the drug.
Another study by the same researchers showed increased risk of condom slippage. Men who reported long-lasting sex sessions were also more likely to report condom breakage.
Since these drugs increase swelling during an erection, it鈥檚 possible this is making condoms too tight, making them more prone to breakage.
This study begins to show more of the implications of using erectile dysfunction drugs. As well as harmful interactions with other recreational drugs, more specifically amyl/poppers, this research also suggests that with this increased risk of condom breakage comes an increased risk of HIV and STI transmission.
There are some important things to consider when using erectile dysfunction drugs in addition to ensuring proper sizing of condoms. With longer-lasting sex, comes the need to monitor and replace condoms and use lube liberally to avoid breakage. Finally, be aware of all possible interactions with Viagra. As with all drugs, it comes with risks, so play safe.
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By JASON ASSELIN – VAC
Any discussion of erectile dysfunction drugs is incomplete without mentioning a potential side effect of their useage – Peyronies Disease (PD). This disease, for which there is no satisfactory treatment, results from injury during intercouse and the subsequent formation of penile scar tissue. This scar tissue in inflecible and causes the penis to curve during erection. Approximately 6% of middle age men have this condition.
When I developed this condition, I was unaware that a disease like this even existed. In frustration, I started an informational website, Every email I get describes a man in a desperate situation with nowhere to turn. Urologists must do a better job of informing patients about this disorder and there should be additional research efforts to find an effective treatment.