How Viagra could help high blood pressure in pregnancy

WOMEN who develop a common pregnancy complication may benefit from a drug normally prescribed for erectile dysfunction.

In a new trial at Assiut University Hospitals in Egypt, 80 pregnant women with pre-eclampsia — high blood pressure during pregnancy — are being prescribed sildenafil (the chemical name for Viagra), or a placebo. Maternal blood pressure, as well as the health of the foetus, will be monitored.

The drug dilates blood vessels, increasing blood flow to the penis for those with impotence. In theory it will also reduce blood pressure and resistance to blood flow in placentas.