Erectile dysfunction is a condition that affects about half of all men living in the United States who are over age 40. While there are medications available to help treat this condition, such as Viagra, using these drugs could put patients at risk of developing other serious medical conditions.

A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine showed men who are taking drugs containing the active ingredient sildenafil—which is present in Viagra– are 84 percent more likely than non-users to develop the deadly skin cancer known as Melanoma. The study suggests the Viagra Melanoma risk could be the result of sildenafil’s effect on genetic pathways that allows skin cancer to grow and spread more aggressively than normal.

Despite these risks, the company that manufactures Viagra is in the midst of launching a new add campaign in the hopes of gaining more users of the drug. An article from NBC Philadelphia News explains the new commercials will use the unique approach of having a woman discuss the effects of erectile dysfunction in the hopes of finding a connection with potential users.

At Lundy Law, we recognize the risks that can be associated with taking certain medications. That’s why our team of Philadelphia drug injury lawyers suggests speaking with both your physician and pharmacist about the risks involved with your medication prior to beginning a new regimen of drugs.