Tel Aviv University Study Links Sildenafil to Blocking Cancer Spread by Limiting Cholesterol Use
Updated
Updated · Queerty · Aug 3
Tel Aviv University Study Links Sildenafil to Blocking Cancer Spread by Limiting Cholesterol Use
3 articles · Updated · Queerty · Aug 3
Summary
Early-2026 research from Tel Aviv University found sildenafil may hinder metastasis by limiting cancer cells’ access to cholesterol, a key fuel for breaking away from primary tumors and invading distant organs.
Mid-July publication of the study drew wider attention after the U.S. National Cancer Institute highlighted it on X over the weekend, underscoring interest in repurposing Viagra beyond erectile dysfunction.
Researchers said combining sildenafil with another approach could both restrict existing cholesterol use and stop new cholesterol production, potentially strengthening the anti-metastatic effect.
No randomized trials were cited, and outside scientists cautioned that findings like these often fail in later testing, leaving the work promising but still at an early stage.