Erectile dysfunction drug may raise risk of eye condition linked to blindness
- An erectile dysfunction drug, tadalafil, has been linked to an increased risk of glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness, according to a new study.
- Researchers in Taiwan found that men taking tadalafil were 22 per cent more likely to develop glaucoma and 33 per cent more likely to develop primary open angle glaucoma.
- The study, published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, suggests that long-term users of tadalafil should have their eye health monitored, particularly those with pre-existing conditions or a family history of glaucoma.
- Tadalafil, which also treats enlarged prostate symptoms, works by relaxing muscles and increasing blood flow but has previously been associated with various eye health issues.
- While the observational study does not establish a direct cause-and-effect, experts stress the importance of regular eye tests as glaucoma often develops without symptoms.
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