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Roses Are Red, Viagra Is Blue ...

Impotence drugs may also raise levels of 'love hormone'; human studies up next

By Sam Gale Rosen,  Newser Staff

Posted Aug 24, 2007 11:35 AM CDT

(Newser) – Viagra and other ED drugs may elevate levels of a hormone linked with feelings of love, a new study shows. Oxytocin, long associated with breastfeeding and maternal affection, also plays a part in arousal and orgasm; Viagra and related meds work on the part of the brain that controls levels of the hormone in rats, Reuters reports.

The research "raises the possibility that erectile dysfunction drugs could be doing more than just affecting erectile dysfunction," says a study co-author. In much the same way that the drugs increase rather than enhance sexual reactions, they may also strengthen social bonds. But he cautions: "I hope that this doesn't cause some wild orgy of inappropriate recreational use."

(FILES) This picture taken 01 November 1998 at the Pfizer factory...
(FILES) This picture taken 01 November 1998 at the Pfizer factory...   (Getty Images)
(FILES) This undated file photo shows Viagra pills made by Pfizer...
(FILES) This undated file photo shows Viagra pills made by Pfizer...   (Getty Images)
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