"COVID-19 Patient in Coma Wakes Up After Receiving 'Viagra'"

Viagra Has Effects of Vasodilation and Airway Opening

Viagra image. Photo by Asia Economy DB

[Asia Economy Reporter Na Ye-eun] A nurse in the UK who was in a coma for 28 days after being infected with COVID-19 woke up dramatically after taking Viagra.

According to the British daily The Times on the 3rd (local time), Monica Almeida (37), a respiratory specialist nurse from Lincolnshire, England, tested positive for COVID-19 last October despite having completed her vaccination.

She, who suffered from asthma, was hospitalized in the intensive care unit of Lincolnshire County Hospital as her condition worsened, losing her sense of smell and taste, and on November 16th, she fell into a coma.

At that time, medical staff estimated her chances of survival at 30%. Monica's parents, who live in Portugal, were even contacted to say they might have to say their last goodbyes to her.

After confirming that Monica's ventilator would be turned off in 72 hours, the medical team decided to try using Viagra, a treatment for erectile dysfunction. They judged that since Viagra dilates blood vessels and opens airways, it might help revive Monica's breathing.

In fact, Monica, who took Viagra, regained her breathing within 48 hours, and her condition improved after a week.

Monica Almeida, who was in a coma for 28 days due to COVID-19 infection.
/Photo by 'The Lincolnite' capture

Monica said, "When I woke up and heard it was thanks to Viagra, I thought it was a joke," adding, "They said my lungs started responding 48 hours after administration."

Meanwhile, The Sun reported, "While research is underway on administering Viagra as a way to increase nitric oxide, which raises blood oxygen levels by inhalation to patients, this case has emerged," and added, "In the UK, COVID-19 patients are being given Viagra if they consent to clinical trials."