Abuse of the prescription drug Viagra may turn into a widespread epidemic among gay men. Viagra, used to fight impotency, has become a party drug of choice for gay men, but researchers now claim that abuse may increase the risk of contracting HIV, STD's or cause other health problems.
Viagra, from pharmaceutical company Pfizer, increases blood flow to the penis. However, this prolonged rise in blood circulation can increase the risk of transmitting or contracting HIV or blood borne STD's. The San Francisco Department of Public Health, which has seen a rise in new HIV cases among gay men, also believes that the drug contributes to unsafe sex practices.
The Department is asking the government to force Pfizer to put a warning label on it's product. The drug company is expected to oppose the action.
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