Eye Doctors Caution Viagra Users: Newly-approved Drug May Cause Visual Side Effects
SAN FRANCISCO, May 4 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, doctors at the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the world's largest organization of eye physicians and surgeons, warned users of the newly-approved anti-impotence drug, Viagra, about the potential side effects that may affect vision.
Michael F. Marmor, MD, Professor of Ophthalmology at Stanford University and spokesperson for the Academy, said that a moderate percentage of people taking Viagra have experienced problems with their vision. "FDA clinical trials show that taking the medication, especially at higher doses, can cause some retinal dysfunction and affect the way we see for a number of hours." Patients reported visual disturbances described as bluish color tinge and light sensitivity. Dr. Marmor said a clinical study showed that electrical measures of retinal function dropped by 30 to 50 percent and lasted for at least five hours after taking a high dose of Viagra.
"On the surface, seeing the world with a bluish tinge may just be annoying," Dr. Marmor said. It is not known, however, whether or not the drug causes any permanent changes in vision. "We need to do some studies about the long-term effects of taking Viagra." In the meantime, Dr. Marmor urged those with retinal eye conditions such as macular degeneration or retinitis pigmentosa to use the drug with caution. "Stay at the lowest dose level possible," he said. According to the FDA, the recommended dose level for most patients is 50 mg.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology is the world's largest organization of eye physicians and surgeons (Eye M.D.s), with more than 23,000 members. The mission of the Academy is to achieve accessible, appropriate and affordable eye care for the public by serving the educational and professional needs of ophthalmologists. Visit the Academy's website at www.eyenet.org.
SOURCE American Academy of Ophthalmology
CO: American Academy of Ophthalmology
ST: California
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