EVALUATION OF THE EFFECTS OF SILDENAFIL CITRATE (VIAGRA) ON THE LUNGS OF A WISTER RAT

ABSTRACT Sildenafil citrate, commonly known as Viagra, is a widely used phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE5) inhibitor primarily for treating erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension. While its effects on the cardiovascular system are well-documented, limited research exists on its impact on lung tissue, particularly in non-diseased models. This study investigates the histological and physiological effects of sildenafil on lung tissue in Wistar rats. The study aims to assess the potential histological changes and biochemical responses in the lungs of Wistar rats following sildenafil administration at varying doses. Twenty-four Wistar rats were divided into four groups: a control group receiving only food and water, and three experimental groups administered sildenafil citrate orally at doses of 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg, and 600 mg/kg, respectively, for 14 days. Lung tissues were harvested and subjected to histopathological examination using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Statistical analysis of weight changes was conducted using ANOVA and post-hoc tests. Histopathological examination of lung tissue across all groups revealed no significant structural abnormalities. The mucosal and epithelial layers remained intact, and no inflammatory or necrotic changes were observed. Similarly, no significant weight differences were noted among the control and treated groups, suggesting a lack of dose-dependent effects on lung tissue under short-term sildenafil exposure. Short-term administration of sildenafil at the tested doses does not induce significant histological changes in the lungs of Wistar rats. Keywords: Sildenafil citrate, lungs, histology, Wistar rats, PDE5 inhibitor, pulmonary effects.