title: Commentary on the possibility that Viagra may contribute to transmission of HIV and other sexual diseases among older adults.
abstract: Many older male adults experiencing impotence are being treated with Viagra. Scientific and media reports indicate that this medication is effective in re-establishing sexual relationships among these men. Despite the benefits that Viagra may have in the treatment of impotence among older adults, increased sexual activities could also facilitate the spread of HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases. This holds for older adults who may lack factual knowledge of HIV transmission and perceive themselves as nonsusceptible to this disease. Prescription of Viagra in combination with HIV/AIDS prevention programs may be helpful.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77550-0425, USA.
authors.forename: F A
authors.initials: FA
authors.lastname: Paniagua
mesh_terms: D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D007172:Erectile Dysfunction / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006679:HIV Seropositivity / Q000635:transmission*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010726:Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010879:Piperazines / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011687:Purines; D000068677:Sildenafil Citrate; D013450:Sulfones
chemical_list: D010726:Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors; D010879:Piperazines; D011687:Purines; D013450:Sulfones; D000068677:Sildenafil Citrate