Viagra could provide relief for menstrual cramps

A well-known drug that is used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction could be beneficial for relieving menstrual cramps, according to a new series. Researchers found that sildenafil citrate, which is marketed as Viagra, could help to lessen the effects of primary dysmenorrhea (PD) in women.

Many women are affected by menstrual cramps every month, which can cause severe pain, dizziness, nausea and sickness. According to the researchers, PD is the most common type of pelvic pain amongst women. It is not due to any disease, but can be incredibly disruptive.  

Most commonly, anti-inflammatory drugs are advised for the treatment of menstrual cramps, however, according to the researchers, they are not an effective treatment for 100 per cent of women. Regular use of anti-inflammatory medications has also been linked to health problems such as kidney damage and ulcers.

Previous research has found that drugs originally designed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction have been shown to reduce PD in women when taken orally. However, the medication was also found to induce headaches in some patients when taken this way, meaning oral administration is not suitable for those that suffer from chronic PD.

The new study looked at the effects of sildenafil citrate when used vaginally, in an attempt to lessen any adverse effects. This type of administration has not been tested before for the treatment of PD.

Researchers from Penn State College of Medicines, US, worked with a team at Nova Gradiska General Hospital in Croatia on the study. Some 25 participants between the ages of 18 and 35 were used for the research. They either received sildenafil citrate or a placebo, before rating their pain during a four-hour period.

It was found that after two hours the group that had been treated with sildenafil citrate presented with uterine artery pulsatility index that was "significantly lower" when compared to the group that were administered with a placebo. They also experienced a reduction in menstrual pain with no side effects.

Dr Richard Legro, from Penn State, said: "If future studies confirm these findings, sildenafil may become a treatment option for patients with PD. Since PD is a condition that most women suffer from and seek treatment for at some points in their lives, the quest for new medication is justified."