Viagra use on the rise among older men as NHS prescriptions soar by more than 50% in six years

Viagra prescriptions for men over 80 are skyrocketing, statistics show.

The sexual aid drug has seen its use in older men increase by more than 50 percent in the last six years.

NHS prescription records show that last year alone, there were 200,000 prescriptions for 80-year-old men.

Some 6,500 packs of tablets were given to men over the age of 90, while a 101-year-old man also received the drug, which is used to help maintain erections.

The number of men 80 and older using Pfizer’s drug rose from 127,448 in 2016 to 196,867 last year.

Some 6,500 packs of the tablets were given to men over the age of 90, while a 101-year-old man also received the drug, which is used to help maintain erections. [File image]

In total, there are 4.4 million patient requests for Viagra. One in 40 men use the drug, with the most frequent requests being those over the age of 60.

Viagra works by physically increasing blood flow to the penis. It does not increase the mental desire to have sex.

A gel alternative, which does not require a prescription, is sold at Boots under the brand name Eroxon.