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Biotech / Medical : Pharma News Only (pfe,mrk,wla, sgp, ahp, bmy, lly)
PFE 26.50+2.4%3:45 PM EST

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To: Anthony Wong who wrote (321)6/15/1998 8:10:00 PM
From: Anthony Wong  Read Replies (1) of 1722
 
BBC: Combining sex drugs could be lethal
Health: Latest News
Monday, June 15, 1998 Published at 16:05 GMT 17:05 UK

Combining the impotence wonder drug Viagra with the
sexual stimulant Amyl Nitrate could endanger lives,
experts have warned.

Viagra has already been linked with the deaths of at
least 16 men in the US, but all were suffering from heart
conditions.

Manufacturers Pfizer warn that Viagra should not be
taken by men who are also taking nitroglycerin or other
nitrate products for heart conditions.

Now the Impotence Association has warned that even
men with no history of heart disease could be at risk if
they also take Amyl Nitrate.

Heighten orgasm

The drug, also known as poppers, is used to heightem
the sensation of orgasm. It is particularly widely used in
the gay community.

Amyl Nitrate is a
gold-coloured liquid which
comes in small glass vials
which are 'popped' open.

Historically, it has been used
to treat angina, but is mainly
used today to treat
emergency cases.

When the vapours are
inhaled blood pressure is
reduced and the heart rate
accelerates which produces
a rushing sensation. The effects last from 30 seconds to
five minutes.

However, the reduction in blood pressure can result in
loss of balance and fainting and puts extra pressure on
the heart. In combination with Viagra the impact could
potentially be devastating.

Ann Craig, director of the Impotence Association, said:
"Doctors have got to be very careful that people are not
taking Amyl Nitrate before they prescribe Viagra."

A helpline set up by the association has been inundated
with calls about Viagra since the drug was launched in
the US this spring.

Flooded with calls

In the first week of May alone the Impotence Association
helpline received more than 3,000 calls - almost a
quarter of the total for 1997.

Calls have tailed off slightly since the news of deaths in
the US.

However Ms Craig said: "There are still a lot of people
desperate for Viagra. There is a worry that people who
are getting it should not be taking it. People need to be
educated about the risks."

Viagra is set to be given a British licence this autumn.

The Impotence Association confidential helpline can be
reached on 0181 767 7791.





news.bbc.co.uk
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