Factors associated with recent sildenafil (viagra) use among men who have sex with men in the United States.

BACKGROUND

Previous studies reported associations between sildenafil (Viagra; Pfizer, New York, NY) use and risk behaviors among men who have sex with men (MSM) in limited geographic areas or special populations. The purpose of the present study was to examine Viagra use among a broader MSM population.

METHODS

The 2002 HIV Testing Survey data from MSM recruited at bars in 10 US states was used to examine Viagra use in the 12 months preceding the interview. Independent correlates of Viagra use were identified using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Eleven percent (131/1177) of MSM reported recent Viagra use. Users were older (adjusted odds ratios [aOR] = 2.4 to 6.2, 95% CI: 1.2 to 13.6); were more likely be infected with HIV (aOR = 2.0, CI: 1.0 to 3.9); reported more male sex partners (aOR = 2.4 to 2.7, CI: 1.2 to 5.4); were twice as likely to have unprotected anal intercourse with a nonprimary male partner (aOR = 2.1, CI: 1.2 to 3.5); and were 3 times more likely to report illicit drug usage (aOR = 3.1, CI: 1.9 to 5.2). Fifty-three percent (70/131) of Viagra users simultaneously took illicit drugs.

CONCLUSIONS

Among MSM from numerous US cities, Viagra use is common and is associated with several high-risk behaviors. These findings are consistent with previous reports and emphasize the need for additional prevention counseling for MSM that incorporates messages targeting Viagra usage and risk behavior.