Scientists have been investigating the use of sildenafil (more commonly known as Viagra) as a treatment for a rare and potentially fatal eating disorder found in dogs.
Megaoesophagus is a condition that causes the expansion of a canine’s oesophagus, which prevents the food pipe from being able to contract and squeeze food down to the dog’s stomach, it can lead to serious health problems for dogs.
In a study led by Washington State University, scientists found that they could use sildenafil to relax and open a dog’s oesophagus muscle, allowing food to pass safely through to the stomach.
At the end of the study, nine out of 10 owners reported reduced regurgitation during the two weeks when their dogs were taking liquid sildenafil.
