Silicon Investor (SI) -- The First Internet Community

STOCKTALK

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor. We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community. If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.

Biotech / Medical : PFE (Pfizer) How high will it go? -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: Anthony Wong who wrote (5899)	10/10/1998 12:05:00 PM
From: Anthony Wong	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 9523

Viagra and Ecstasy the new cocktail by Patrick Sawer Clubbers on a constant search for new thrills are taking the anti-impotency drug Viagra alongside Ecstasy and amphetamines - with potentially lethal consequences. The drug is being used to overcome an inability to perform sexually after a long night on the dance floor. While it may lead to a dramatic improvement in performance, doctors have warned its abuse runs the risk of provoking a stroke or heart attack. People familiar with the London club scene say taking Viagra, which should be prescribed only for a diagnosed condition, has become the latest trend. Scott Manson, editor of The Ministry of Sound's magazine, Ministry, said: "There's no doubt Viagra is making a big impact with twenty-somethings on the club scene because of the sexual kick it gives. The mix of E and Viagra is very potent, but it's also very dangerous. They are both dangerous for the heart and to combine the two is asking for a coronary." The growing demand for Viagra has led to fears it could lead to lucrative black-market sales in pubs and nightclubs. Viagra, or "Poke", has already been touted around several nightclubs by dealers also selling cocaine, amphetamines and cannabis. The blue, diamond-shaped pills, usually £15 when privately prescribed by a GP, can change hands for £40 each. With Viagra temporarily banned on the NHS and only available privately, the medical authorities fear it could be smuggled into Britain from America and the Continent. Mr Manson said the use of the drug by clubbers has been spreading from the gay scene to the straight scene. He said: "People like it because they are so mashed up after being out all night on E they need something to kick them back into life sexually. "It's even become a pulling line. When one guy told a girl he was too tired to go back to her room, she told him she had some Viagra and he was immediately on for it. People think that because it's a prescription drug it's okay to take it, even though it could be fatal. Mind you, that doesn't stop clubbers popping pills and speed every weekend." Along with many London venues The Ministry of Sound operates a strict anti-drugs policy, searching everyone on entry and working closely with police. But as a spokesman admitted: "There is little we can do if someone is determined to smuggle something in their bra." One dealer operating in London's clubs said: "The clubbing scene has always had a sexual edge and Viagra has a natural place in that." A number of deaths in the United States, where over a four-month period this year more than 3.6 million Viagra prescriptions were dispensed, have been linked to use of the drug. Most of the 69 who died after taking the pill suffered heart attacks or other cardiovascular complications. Doctors have warned it should not be taken by people with abnormal blood pressure or a history of cardiac problems. Dr Adam Winstock, of the Institute of Psychiatry's National Addiction Centre, said: "We have had anecdotal reports from clubbers that Viagra is being used in this way, which is cause for concern." He warned of the potential danger of taking Viagra with other drugs, including the stimulant amyl nitrate, also known as "poppers". "They both lower your blood pressure, which may reduce blood flow to the heart and brain. That can make you faint or even precipitate a heart problem. "With Ecstasy, your heart rate increases and blood pressure rises. Mixed with Viagra it could lead to complications, especially if you have an underlying problem," he said. The Department of Health said aiding and abetting the illicit sale of Viagra could lead to an unlimited fine and up to two years in jail. © Associated Newspapers Ltd., 08 October 1998 This Is London thisislondon.co.uk