WOMEN taking Viagra-style drugs to boost sex lives have sparked a surge in suspected side-effects.
Females popping the little blue pills are behind a third of illness cases logged.
In the three years from 2021 to 2023, women recorded 125 reports with the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency watchdog relating to a total of 216 side-effects — accounting for a third of the total.
But in the years 2018, 2019 and 2020, there were just 23 reports by females claiming a total of 43 side-effects.
Women complained of anxiety, insomnia, breathing issues, tiredness, headaches, nausea and vomiting and vertigo.
Men suffered with eye problems, heart issues, euphoria, aggression and priapism — a condition leaving the man erect for hours.
Viagra, made by Pfizer, came out of patent in the UK in 2013 — meaning other companies can produce and sell the drug.
The figures for suspected side-effects show a surge after 2018, when rules were loosened so the drug could be bought over the counter rather than always being prescribed by a doctor.
Sex and relationship therapist Cate Mackenzie, said: “Sometimes these things can give people a shift or a boost that can re-build confidence and that can help restore sexual self-esteem.
“Of course it’s always important to be aware of the downfalls of any drug and be careful what you do.
“But there is a lot of evidence that the placebo affect is huge in that also taking something to help feel better about sex can be hugely comforting.”
