Summary:
- Researchers have found that the active ingredient in Viagra, called sildenafil, could be used to treat a rare and devastating childhood disease called pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).
- PAH is a condition where the blood vessels in the lungs become narrowed, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood through the lungs, leading to shortness of breath and other serious complications.
- The study showed that sildenafil, which is already approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, can help relax and widen the blood vessels in the lungs, potentially improving the symptoms and quality of life for children with PAH.