What is Viagra?
Viagra is a drug prescribed for men suffering from erectile dysfunction and/or pulmonary arterial hypertension. “Viagra” is the brand name of the drug originally developed by scientists at Pfizer – since the drug is now off patent, it is commonly known by its generic name, “Sildenafil.” However, don’t be confused! Whether you have in your possession “Viagra” or “Sildenafil”, you can be confident that you are taking the same drug, and will enjoy the same therapeutic benefits.
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How do you take Viagra?
Viagra (and Sildenafil) are sold in pill form. By swallowing the pill with water, the average length of time to getting an erection is ~27 minutes. By allowing the pill to dissolve under your tongue, the average length of time to getting an erection is ~15 minutes. There are also mouth-spray versions of the drug available, but it is most common for people to acquire the drug in pill form.
Who should take Viagra?
Viagra was originally developed primarily for men suffering from erectile dysfunction. Usually these are older men, but there are younger men that have suffered this terrible condition, and have been prescribed the drug as well. You must go to your doctor in order to acquire the drug, as it is offered only by prescription. Your doctor will ensure that you do not have any pre-existing conditions that would endanger your health should you take the drug, and of course, its illegal to acquire prescription drugs without a prescription! So do make sure to see your doctor before starting on this drug.
What is the history of Viagra?
Surprisingly, Viagra was actually originally developed in order to help folks with cardiovascular problems. However, the researchers of the drug (who eventually patented it under the auspices of Pfizer pharmaceuticals) discovered that it was also a very powerful way to combat the effects of erectile dysfunction. Like many things in science, it was a happy mistake that led to this wonder drug that has helped tens of millions of men around the world reclaim their sex lives and get back to enjoying life the way they always wanted to.
The drug was first made available in 1998, and the patent expires in 2020. However, don’t fret! A generic version is being made available starting in 2017, which will be manufactured by Israel-based Teva Pharmaceuticals, under an agreement with Pfizer to ensure that they are complying with the terms of Pfizer’s patent. Globally, many pharmaceutical manufacturers have been known to produce the drug “off-patent” – or without license from Pfizer. It isn’t recommended that you acquire drugs manufactured in such a manner, as not only have they not been approved by Pfizer (making them illegal), the consumer also cannot be totally sure of the quality and safety of such drugs.
Are there any “off-label” uses of Viagra?
As previously noted, Viagra is primarily used to overcome the effects of erectile dysfunction in men. However, doctors have been known to prescribe the drug “off-label” for women who are post-menopausal or who have undergone a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). In these women, the drug has been noted to significantly enhance their sex drive and sexual performance, as well as enhancing vaginal lubrication and making orgasms easier to achieve. So no, this isn’t just a drug for “old, tired men” – women can and have been enjoying the benefits of this drug as well! As always, make sure to check with your doctor about this though – safety should always be your number one priority.
What are the side effects of Viagra?
Viagra has been known to cause headaches, flushing (reddened face and chest/upper arms), nasal congestion and indigestion. It has also been known to cause impaired vision – whether by making everything appear blue (cyanopsia), reducing peripheral vision, or just generally blurring vision. Some rare side effects have included heart attack, severely low blood pressure, unsafe length of erections, and strokes.
It is important to note that Viagra also has some serious interactions with other common prescription drugs. You should not take Viagra if you are also taking protease inhibitors (for HIV), erythromycin (an antibiotic) or cimetidine (a common antacid). Additionally, one should not mix Viagra with beta blockers, as this can cause an unsafe drop in blood pressure and lead to serious if not fatal health consequences.
I am self employed. General Practitioner in Melbourne, VIC. My special interest: male reproductive system.