Warning: Viagra®

Linked to Skin Cancer

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Viagra® (Sildenafil) was approved by the FDA in 1998 for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Viagra® is a PDE5 enzyme inhibitor – which affects the same cell-signaling pathways that melanoma cells use to metastasize. Melanoma is a dangerous form of skin cancer that develops in the melanocytes, the melanin-producing cells located in the bottom layer of the epidermis. The American Cancer Society estimates that over 57,000 men will be diagnosed with melanoma annually, with an average age of diagnosis around age 63.

Melanoma symptoms include:

  • New spots on the skin

  • Change in the size or color of an existing mole

  • Sores that do not heal

  • Changes in texture, oozing or bleeding from a mole

Viagra® and Melanoma Medical Study

A June 2014 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association – Internal Medicine found that men who took Viagra® had an 84% increased risk of developing melanoma. Researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health analyzed data from 2000 through 2010 during which time 142 cases of melanoma were diagnosed from a pool of approximately 26,000 men. The researchers note that while the study shows correlation and not causation, the large increase in risk for developing melanoma after taking Viagra® warrants further research into the connection.

Do not stop taking medications without speaking with your health care professional.

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Know Your Rights

For over 75 combined years, our legal team has successfully helped thousands of victims and families. If you or a loved one used Viagra and was later diagnosed with melanoma, call us at 800-818-4301 or fill out the form for a free consultation.