A Dutch medical study has been paralyzed after the death of 11 newborn babies. The trial sought to reinforce the growth of the unborn in women with poorly developed placentas through the drug sildenafil, sold under the brand name Viagra.
This pill serves to dilate the blood vessels by promoting male erection or as a control of blood pressure. Experts thought that it would also strengthen the growth of the placenta. However, they did not expect that one of the side effects would affect the blood vessels in the lungs of newborns, causing them an excessive pressure that lead to death.
The study began in 2015 with 183 pregnant women. 93 took Viagra and 90 to placebo. 17 of the babies born in the first group presented pulmonary problems, of which 11 died. Only 3 of the second relationship Although experts indicate that an in-depth investigation still needs to be carried out, it is feared that there may be more lives at risk.
The trials were also conducted in England, whose health authorities said that sildenafil had no positive effect and could even put the health of patients at risk. Canada is immersed in a similar project, it has already been warned of the possible consequences of the treatment. The one from the Netherlands, which has already been paralyzed, intended to last until 2020 and involves more than 300 patients.
