home > news > health

Stiff Competition?

Tuesday, Jul 28, 2009 | Updated 10:16 PM CST

Viagra is being examined for its potential use as a performance-enhancing drug.

MONTREAL – The head of the World Anti-Doping Agency acknowledged that Viagra is being examined for its potential use as a performance-enhancing drug.

The blue, diamond-shaped pill, widely associated with treating sexual dysfunction in men, may be used for a competitive advantage in sports, according to the New York Times.

"It's amazing the interest that particular drug does attract," WADA president John Fahey said Sunday following a board meeting. "I can simply say this, there have been statements to suggest that it is performance-enhancing — that is being evaluated."

Viagra, or sildenafil citrate, works by supressing an enzyme that regulates blood flow and allows vessels to relax and widen. It also is used to treat pulmonary hypertension by relaxing the arterial wall.

In the case of athletes, increased cardiac output and more efficient transport of oxygenated fuel to the muscles can enhance endurance.

"It is under review, no decision has been made and before any changes occur — as I'm sure you appreciate — to the prohibited list, it has to be a rigorous examination that allows the committee to make a recommendation," Fahey said. "It's not being ignored, but there has been no decision on it and nor would I suggest that you should interpret what I've just said as a likelihood that there will be either a positive or a negative decision when the examination is ultimately concluded."