Cialis May Help Ease Pulmonary Hy...(e treatment for pulmonary hypertension a...),Health

Dr. Gregg C. Fonarow, a professor of cardiology at the University of California, Los Angeles, noted that pulmonary hypertension is a progressive disease which results in substantial morbidity and mortality.

"Prior studies have shown that the oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor, sildenafil (Viagra, Revatio) improves exercise capacity in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension," Fonarow said. "This medication is currently FDA-approved for this indication, but must be taken three times daily."

This new study of Cialis, taken once daily, demonstrates that the drug substantially improves functional capacity, improves quality of life, and also results in less clinical worsening in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension, Fonarow said.

"These are impressive findings," Fonarow said. "Tadalafil represents a very promising new therapy for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension, that may be used alone or in combination with other treatments such as bosentan."

More information

For details on pulmonary hypertension, visit the American Heart Association.

SOURCES: Robyn J. Barst, M.D., professor, pediatrics, Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons, New York City; Gregg C. Fonarow, M.D., professor, cardiology, University of California, Los Angeles; Oct. 28, 2008, presentations, American College of Chest Physicians annual meeting, Philadelphia