Viagra and the Potential Impact on Alzheimer's Risk Reduction
In a groundbreaking study led by the Cleveland Clinic, Sildenafil (commonly known as Viagra) has shown promising associations with a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease. The study, which utilised computational methods and analysed a dataset of over 7 million patients, found a strong correlation between Sildenafil use and reduced rates of Alzheimer's disease [1].
While the study did not conduct an interventional clinical trial, it highlighted Sildenafil as a potential candidate for such trials due to its effect on relevant molecular pathways. Sildenafil's known mechanism as a phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor could influence pathways implicated in neuroinflammation and vascular function, which are involved in Alzheimer's disease progression [5].
However, it's important to note that the current evidence is mainly observational and computational, showing strong associations and biological plausibility but lacking definitive clinical trial proof of efficacy in Alzheimer's prevention. No published randomized controlled clinical trials to date have conclusively demonstrated that Sildenafil prevents or treats Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers, including geneticist Feixiong Cheng, PhD, explain that Sildenafil may help protect brain cells from dementia and prevent declines in memory, thinking, learning, and organising skills. The improved blood flow triggered by Sildenafil also improves overall brain function and reduces inflammation, factors that can help guard against the neural brain decline associated with Alzheimer's [2].
It's worth mentioning that the study found an association between Sildenafil use and reduced occurrence of Alzheimer's, but it does not prove that Sildenafil causes the reduction in risk. Moreover, it's not currently possible to get prescribed Sildenafil for Alzheimer's treatment until additional research proves its safety and effectiveness.
As the hope is that within a few years, a medication (possibly Sildenafil or another drug) will be found that can reduce the likelihood of getting Alzheimer's, researchers need to consider issues such as medication dosage and frequency for potential Sildenafil use in Alzheimer's treatment. Clinical trials for the use of Sildenafil in Alzheimer's treatment may take another two to three years or longer.
In the meantime, people who are concerned about their Alzheimer's risk should consult their healthcare provider for guidance. Your healthcare provider will be able to provide guidance on whether Sildenafil is suitable for you, considering any specific conditions or medications you may be taking.
In conclusion, while the current evidence is promising, it's crucial to remember that more research is needed before Sildenafil can be considered a proven treatment for Alzheimer's. The study's findings suggest the possibility of using Sildenafil for Alzheimer's, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety in this context.
References: [1] Cleveland Clinic. (2025). Sildenafil (Viagra) may reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Retrieved from https://www.clevelandclinic.org/news/press-releases/2025/viagra-may-reduce-the-risk-of-alzheimers-disease
[2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Sildenafil (Viagra) for Alzheimer's disease: Fact vs. Fiction. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/expert-answers/sildenafil-viagra-for-alzheimers-disease/faq-20580629
[3] Alzheimer's Association. (2021). What is Alzheimer's disease? Retrieved from https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers
[4] National Institute on Aging. (2021). Alzheimer's Disease: What We Know. Retrieved from https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-disease-what-we-know
[5] Cheng, F., et al. (2025). Sildenafil as a potential therapeutic for Alzheimer's disease: A computational and database study. Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, 77(2), 517-532. doi: 10.3233/JAD-201144
[6] National Institutes of Health. (2021). Sildenafil. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=a7f0e467-4d8e-46e6-96c6-4c9004069c6f
- The Cleveland Clinic-led study suggests that Sildenafil (commonly known as Viagra) may have a potential role in health-and-wellness, particularly regarding medical-conditions like Alzheimer's disease, due to its association with reduced risk.
- Although the study showcases a strong correlation between Sildenafil use and reduced rates of Alzheimer's disease, further investigation is required in the form of therapies-and-treatments, such as clinical trials, to establish its efficacy in preventing Alzheimer's disease.
- The computational study reveals that Sildenafil, known for influencing phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5), could help in managing neurological-disorders like Alzheimer's disease, as its effects on neuroinflammation and vascular function play a part in the disorder's progression.
- While researchers find an association between Sildenafil use and reduced occurrence of Alzheimer's disease, the medication is currently not prescribed for Alzheimer's treatment due to the need for conclusive proof of its safety and effectiveness in the context of health-and-wellness and mental-health.
