Viagra may find new use, for pulmonary hypertension |
Viagra, the drug that has been so popular in treating erectile dysfunction, is showing benefits for people with pulmonary hypertension.
In a scientific study conducted in Hydrabad, India, Viagra’s action as a blood vessel dilator significantly improved exercise capacity, pumping strength of the heart, and quality of life measures such as breathlessness and fatigue, in patients with pulmonary hypertension.
This was the first strictly scientific study to test Viagra as a potential treatment for pulmonary hypertension. Similar benefits had previously been observed clinically and in small uncontrolled studies.
A larger, international, placebo-controlled study of several hundred subjects is currently under way. Results, due out later in 2004, are expected to be more definitive.
Intravenous Remodulin filing accepted by FDA for review. |
United Therapeutics Corporation announced in March, 2004, that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has accepted for review its intravenous Remodulin supplemental New Drug Application. The application proposes to add the intravenous route of delivery to the Remodulin label. The FDA previously approved Remodulin (treprostinil sodium) injection as a continuous subcutaneous infusion to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension. The FDA is expected to issue an action letter on the new application by November 30, 2004.