Miracles of VIAGRA: Not what you Think

Canadian researchers recently found that Viagra Treats Children's Lethal Hypertension. VIAGRA's original market was men with Erectial Dysfunction -- you may recall the slew of commercials with semi-famous people like Bob Dole and Raphael Palmiero, with the Pepsi knock-off commercials. Anywhoo, the reason why viagra works is that it helps increase arterial bloodflow by 'relaxing' the ionic pumps by reacting with nitric oxide in smooth muscle parts of the arteries and capillaries. This enlarges the vessels and allows superior blood flow. I think it also inhibits vitamin A receptors in the eyes from transforming A to L-A, causing some 'blue' vision. A is the vitamin required for seeing in the dark (i.e. what we need to see at night, EAT your carrots!).

The reason why the drug works here is that the capillaries in the lungs, like the penis, are rich in phosphodietase which reacts with the nitric oxide. The lungs use potential gradients to transfer O2 to the blood and CO2 to the Lung(outside). When the blood vessels restrict, there is less CO2 to exchange, and the body takes in less O2. This makes it hard to breathe. This will cause the body to fatigue, and normally you will see spots or hurt in your chest. If you really want to see it do the balloon test under controlled conditions. When you have hypertension, or high blood pressure, your body will restrict your bloodvessels for protection -- so they don't bulge or get torn. There is where VIAGRA comes in. It releases tension in the blood vessels, particularly in the lungs (yes, and penis). This increases blood flow in the lungs, allowing for easier breathing. Normally children with Pulmonary Hypertension die within a year of diagnosis. Of the 15 children enrolled in this particular study, 4 died within a year, 9 continue to do well on the treatment.

I love it when something this simple comes along and has a huge impact on people's lives. It began as a product of selfish middle aged men who couldn't get it up, and now it's saving children. Brilliant.

~B