E-DRUG: Deaths associated with Viagra (Sildenafil citrate)
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FDA receives more reports of deaths among Viagra users
July 23, 1998, WASHINGTON (AP) -- The (U.S.) Food and Drug
Administration has confirmed 39 deaths among American men using the
popular impotence pill Viagra, but says it remains convinced Viagra is
safe when used by the proper patients.
The FDA updated Viagra information on its Internet site late Tuesday.
The agency revealed that it also has received an additional 38 reports
of possible deaths among Viagra users, but it has not been able to
verify those reports' accuracy. Twenty-four were hearsay or media
reports, eight failed to show whether the men actually took Viagra, and
six involved foreign patients, the FDA said.
Even the 39 verified reports, however, don't prove the drug was to
blame, the FDA cautioned.
Viagra carries safety warnings. Doctors must not prescribe it to men
who take nitroglycerin or other nitrate-containing drugs because the
mix can kill.
The FDA also warns that the sudden exertion involved in resuming
sexual activity may be too risky for men with heart conditions, and
urges doctors to assess heart health before prescribing.
Viagra has been prescribed some 2.7 million times since hitting the
market in April.
Copyright 1998 The Associated Press.
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