Our title suggests some sort of sexual marathon or contest, but nothing could be further from the truth.  A few weeks before the Olympics we suggested that the World Anti-Doping Agency were considering whether to add Viagra and similar drugs Cialis and Levitra to the list of banned substances because of the effect they may have on performance in sport.  There does not appear to be a decision yet.  We imagine drug tests carried out at the Olympic Games are being scrutinised for the use of these substances to ascertain if they were being used in more cases than would be expected in this very fit sector of society.  It will also be interesting to see if they test women’s samples for the use of these drugs which in most parts of the world should only be prescribed for male patients.  The way world records have tumbled at these games opens the door for speculation, justified or not.  Viagra, Cialis and Levitra have many uses apart from just sexual, and the way they allow blood flows to increase could easily make the difference between average and exceptional performance.  Some universities are reported to be testing for this already and no doubt will publish results as soon as they are conclusive.

If they are added to the banned list it will add further problems for any male athletes who are suffering from male pattern baldness and impotence. Finasteride, the drug in Propecia, the treatment licensed for hair loss and shown to be effective in many cases, is already banned because it masks the use of steroids.  Banning drugs that help millions of men regain their sex lives seems a bit harsh on sportsmen.  We will have to wait and see if they grasp this nettle.  Will the next Cialis advert show a winning tape breaker?   See your doctor for improved results!!  may be the tag line.