Could viagra help COPD patients catch their breath?

NCT ID NCT05061368

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: University of Alberta Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jul 09, 2026 · Updated 3 times

Summary

This study tests whether sildenafil, a drug that widens blood vessels in the lungs, can improve exercise ability and reduce shortness of breath in people with mild COPD. Researchers think poor blood flow in the lungs may cause breathing trouble during activity. The trial will compare sildenafil to a placebo in 160 participants.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Sildenafil (oral drug, a pulmonary vasodilator)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new way to help people with mild COPD breathe easier during exercise and be more active.
What could go wrong: This is an early phase 2 trial with only 160 participants. Sildenafil may not improve symptoms or could cause side effects like headache or flushing. Results may not apply to all COPD patients.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

chronic obstructive pulmonary disease Dyspnea

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Clinical Physiology Laboratory
RECRUITING

Edmonton, Alberta, T6G2R3, Canada

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