Research indicates that tadalafil, the active ingredient in Cialis, could help treat patients with Raynaud’s disease. By improving blood flow to fingers and toes, the drug eases the disease’s symptoms of numbness and discoloration.
A drug used to treat erectile dysfunction is showing promise for patients suffering from a rare blood condition. Raynaud’s disease is a condition that causes discoloration of fingers and toes. When people with Raynaud’s disease are exposed to the cold, their blood vessels close, causing their fingers or toes to turn white or red. Some doctors believe stress can also bring on these sudden symptoms, and in severe cases the condition can lead to finger ulcers and scarring.
It’s a disorder that affects only 5 percent of the U.S. population, but a recent study has shown that tadalafil, the active ingredient in Cialis, may help patients living with the disease.
The American College of Rheumatolgy asked 53 patients to participate in a Cialis study. All of the patients dealt with the sudden onset of Raynaud’s at least four times a week and had finger ulcers brought on by the disease. Half of the group, which was made up mostly of women, were given Cialis.
Cialis Improves Blood Flow
The other half received a placebo. Cialis is known for opening blood vessels, which is why it can help men get an erection. In this case, the medication’s vasodilating properties open blood vessels in the fingers and toes.
The improved blood flow decreased joint pain for the majority of people taking Cialis. It also helped those with ulcers. The bumps disappeared in 77 percent of the patients taking Cialis compared with those who didn’t. For all but one patient, the ulcers didn’t return while taking Cialis. No adverse side effects were observed in any patients.
The University of Manchester did a similar study and also found Cialis helped Raynaud’s patients. With 57 participants, doctors gave patients Cialis and monitored their disease for 25 days. Those taking the drug experienced discoloration of their fingers and toes 44 percent less than those who didn’t get Cialis.
Doctors say both studies show Cialis could improve the quality of life for patients battling Raynaud’s disease and could eventually become a mainstream treatment.
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