What is Viagra?
Viagra is a brand name for the drug sildenafil, which belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Viagra is used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), which is the inability to get or keep an erection hard enough for sexual activity. Viagra works by increasing blood flow to the penis, but only when you are sexually aroused.
How should I take Viagra?
You should take Viagra as prescribed by your doctor. The usual dose is 50 mg, taken about an hour before sexual activity. However, you can take it anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours before sexual activity. Do not take more than one dose per day. You can take Viagra with or without food, but avoid high-fat meals as they may delay the onset of action.
How long does Viagra last?
The effects of Viagra vary from person to person, depending on factors such as age, health, metabolism, and other medications. Generally, Viagra lasts for about 4 to 6 hours, but it may last longer or shorter for some people. It is important to note that Viagra does not make you sexually aroused or increase your sexual desire. You still need sexual stimulation for Viagra to work.
What are the possible side effects of Viagra?
Viagra is generally safe and well tolerated, but like any medication, it can cause side effects. The most common side effects are headache, flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, dizziness, nausea, hot flushes, and vision changes (such as blurred vision, blue-tinted vision, or increased sensitivity to light). These side effects are usually mild and temporary, and they should go away within a few hours.
What are the serious side effects of Viagra?
Although rare, some people may experience serious side effects from taking Viagra. These include:
- An erection that lasts longer than 4 hours (priapism). This can damage the penis and requires immediate medical attention.
- Sudden vision loss in one or both eyes. This can be a sign of a serious eye problem called non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). Stop taking Viagra and seek medical help right away if this happens.
- Sudden hearing loss or ringing in the ears (tinnitus). This can be a sign of a serious ear problem. Stop taking Viagra and contact your doctor if this happens.
Who should not take Viagra?
Viagra is not suitable for everyone. You should not take Viagra if you:
- Are allergic to sildenafil or any of the ingredients in Viagra
- Are taking nitrates or nitric oxide donors (such as amyl nitrite) for chest pain or heart problems. These medicines can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure when taken with Viagra.
- Are taking riociguat (Adempas) for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). This medicine can also interact with Viagra and cause low blood pressure.
- Have severe heart or liver problems
- Have low blood pressure or high blood pressure that is not controlled
- Have had a stroke or a heart attack in the last 6 months
- Have a rare inherited eye disease called retinitis pigmentosa
- Have ever had vision loss due to NAION.
Can I take Viagra with other medications?
Viagra can interact with some medications and affect their effectiveness or cause unwanted side effects. You should tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking or plan to take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some of the medications that can interact with Viagra are:
- Alpha-blockers (such as doxazosin or tamsulosin) for high blood pressure or prostate problems. These medicines can cause dizziness or fainting when taken with Viagra.
- Protease inhibitors (such as ritonavir or saquinavir) for HIV infection. These medicines can increase the level of Viagra in your blood and increase the risk of side effects.
- Antibiotics (such as clarithromycin or erythromycin) or antifungals (such as ketoconazole or itraconazole). These medicines can also affect the metabolism of Viagra and increase the risk of side effects.
- Other PDE5 inhibitors (such as tadalafil or vardenafil) for ED. You should not take more than one PDE5 inhibitor at a time, as this can cause an overdose and serious complications.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Viagra?
Drinking alcohol while taking Viagra can reduce its effectiveness and increase the risk of side effects. Alcohol can also worsen some of the underlying conditions that cause ED, such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure. Therefore, it is advisable to limit or avoid alcohol consumption when taking Viagra.
Is there a generic version of Viagra?
Yes, there is a generic version of Viagra called sildenafil. Sildenafil contains the same active ingredient as Viagra and works in the same way. However, it may have different inactive ingredients, such as fillers, colors, or flavors. Sildenafil is usually cheaper than Viagra, but it may not be available in all countries or pharmacies.
Is there a herbal or natural alternative to Viagra?
There are many products that claim to be herbal or natural alternatives to Viagra, but they are not proven to be safe or effective. Some of these products may contain unknown or harmful ingredients that can cause serious health problems. Some of these products may also interact with other medications or medical conditions. Therefore, it is best to avoid these products and consult your doctor before trying any alternative treatments for ED.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any medication or treatment for erectile dysfunction or following any point mentioned on this page and whole of our website!