Viagra (Sildenafil) is used to treat erectile dysfunction, or impotence, in men. It works by relaxing muscles in the walls of blood vessels, as well as increasing blood flow to certain areas of the body. Another brand of Sildenafil is known as Revatio, which is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, along with improving exercise capacity in men and women. You should consult with your doctor if you are taking Adempas (riociguat) for pulmonary hypertension. You should avoid taking Viagra if you take nitrate drugs for chest pain or heart problems, as it can cause a sudden and severe drop in blood pressure. If you experience any pain or an erection that lasts longer than four hours you should see a health care professional right away.
Your health care provider should also know if you have had a stroke, low or high blood pressure that is not well controlled, sickle cell anemia, multiple myeloma or leukemia, the rare genetic eye disease retinitis pigmentosa, bleeding problems, stomach ulcers, or liver or kidney problems.
Since Viagra can decrease blood flow to the optic nerve of the eye, you should stop taking the medication if you have a sudden loss of vision. This side effect has been seen in people who had heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or certain eye troubles prior to taking the drug, and in those who smoked or were over the age of 50. No one under the age of 18 should take Viagra without medical supervision.
Viagra is generally only taken when needed, roughly 30 minutes to an hour before sexual activity; you may, however, take it up to four hours in advance. You should avoid taking this medication more than once per day. You will not experience an erection simply by taking Viagra; it helps you obtain an erection when sexual stimulation develops.
During sexual activity, some serious side effects that requirement immediate attention can include dizziness or nausea, or pain, numbness, or tingling in the chest, arms, neck, or jaw. You are very unlikely to miss a dose since Viagra is taken on an as needed basis. You should avoid consuming alcohol or any grapefruit products while taking this medication. Some of the more common side effects of taking Viagra can include flushing, headache, stuffy nose, upset stomach, and muscle or back pain.
The usual dose for this medication is 50gm, taken as needed, not more than once per day. This may be increased to 100mg or decreased to 25mg, depending on effectiveness and tolerance. Although you may take Viagra up to four hours before sexual activity, taking it one hour prior seems to be the most effective.
Although Viagra is a terrific option for men with erectile dysfunction, there are things in your daily life you can do to help avoid the problem altogether. These can include being and staying more active, managing your weight, drinking less alcohol, quitting smoking (the results of which can be highly noticed), and even finding ways to reduce stress in your life. However, if you feel that Viagra is the best, or perhaps only, option it can be a highly effective and safe treatment for ED.
I am self employed. General Practitioner in Melbourne, VIC. My special interest: male reproductive system.