Though the rarest form of skin cancer, melanoma is the most deadly. While UV-ray exposure and family history plays a part, some cases of melanoma have been linked to use of Viagra.

That specific cause of melanoma was documented in a study published in 2014 that found men who used Viagra, or other erectile dysfunction medications, were significantly more likely to develop potentially deadly skin cancer.

Viagra has been widely used for years. Cialis and Levitra have more recently been introduced to the market. A potentially deadly side effect might cause those who use Viagra to decide it is not worth the risk.
JAMA Internal Medicine published the study examining Viagra side effects. Data was used from 26,000 men over a 10-year period. During this time, 3,500 skin cancer cases were found. Most were basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma cases and were not attributed to Viagra. The 142 cases of melanoma, however, appeared to have a link.After multiple factors were taken into account (such as family history, hair color and mole count), it was found that men who used Viagra were 84 percent more likely to develop melanoma skin cancer. The researchers claimed that their findings were not conclusive enough to definitely state that Viagra side effects included skin cancer, but the researchers stated that additional research was required.

One of the researchers noted that “people who are on the medication and who have a high risk for developing melanoma may consider touching base with their primary care providers.”

It was also supposed that the risk of developing melanoma was higher for Cialis or Levitra users because those drugs remain in the body for a longer period of time.

Men have already filed Viagra side effects lawsuits against Pfizer for failing to warn against melanoma risks. A Viagra class action lawsuit investigation has been launched to further look into these allegations as well.