Viagra

Viagra (sildenafil) is the first FDA-approved medication for treating erectile dysfunction (ED), helping millions of men achieve and maintain erections sufficient for sexual activity. The active ingredient, sildenafil citrate, works by increasing blood flow to the penis when you’re sexually aroused. This prescription medication has been available since 1998 and remains one of the most recognized treatments for ED worldwide.

When you buy Viagra through legitimate online pharmacy delivery services, you get the distinctive blue diamond-shaped tablets manufactured by Pfizer. The medication comes in three strengths: 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg, allowing your doctor to find the right dose for your needs.

How Viagra Works

Getting an erection involves a complex process. When youre sexually stimulated, your body releases nitric oxide in the penis. This chemical starts a chain reaction that relaxes smooth muscles and allows blood to flow into the spongy tissue, creating an erection. An enzyme called phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) breaks down the chemicals that maintain this blood flow, causing the erection to end.

Viagra blocks PDE5, allowing the natural erection process to work more effectively. The medication doesnt create arousal or excitement—you still need sexual stimulation for it to work. Think of it as removing a roadblock rather than pushing the gas pedal. The drug helps your body respond normally to sexual arousal when ED has been getting in the way.

After taking Viagra, it enters your bloodstream within 30-60 minutes and reaches peak levels in about an hour. The effects typically last 4-5 hours, though this varies between individuals. You dont have an erection the entire time—it only happens when youre sexually aroused during this window.

Proper Usage and Dosing

Take Viagra about 30 minutes to 1 hour before sexual activity on an empty stomach for fastest results. You can take it with food, but heavy or high-fat meals delay how quickly it works. Swallow the tablet whole with water. The usual starting dose is 50mg, which your doctor may increase to 100mg or decrease to 25mg based on effectiveness and side effects.

Only take Viagra once in a 24-hour period. More frequent dosing doesn’t improve results and increases side effect risk. Some men respond well to taking it on an empty stomach 30-45 minutes before sex, while others find taking it 1-2 hours after a light meal works better. Experiment to find what timing works best for you.

Comparing ED Medications

Many men wonder about the differences between ED medications. Cialis (tadalafil) works similarly to Viagra but lasts much longer—up to 36 hours. This allows for more spontaneity since you dont need to time it as precisely. However, side effects can also last longer with Cialis.

Levitra (vardenafil) is another option that works like Viagra but may cause fewer vision-related side effects. It has a similar duration of action (4-5 hours) and similar effectiveness. Some men who experience troublesome side effects with one medication find better tolerability with another.

All three medications work by blocking PDE5 and require sexual stimulation to be effective. The choice often comes down to how long you want the medication to last, which side effects you experience, and personal preference. Your doctor can help you decide which option fits your lifestyle and medical situation best.

Who Should Use Viagra

Viagra treats ED caused by various factors including aging, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, prostate surgery, psychological issues, and certain medications. It works for most men with ED regardless of the underlying cause, though effectiveness varies. The medication is approved for adult men and should not be used by women.

Your doctor will evaluate whether Viagra is safe for you based on your medical history and current medications. Men with certain heart conditions, recent stroke or heart attack, severe liver or kidney disease, low blood pressure, or specific eye problems need careful evaluation before using any ED medication.

Safety Considerations

Never combine Viagra with nitrate medications used for chest pain—this combination causes dangerous blood pressure drops. Nitrates include nitroglycerin, isosorbide mononitrate, and isosorbide dinitrate. Also avoid taking Viagra with recreational drugs called “poppers” (amyl nitrite or butyl nitrite), which also contain nitrates.

Tell your doctor about all medications you take, including those for high blood pressure, antifungal drugs, antibiotics, HIV medications, and other prescription or over-the-counter products. Some medications interact with Viagra and require dose adjustments.

If you have heart disease, discuss with your doctor whether your heart is healthy enough for sexual activity. Sex puts strain on your heart similar to moderate exercise like climbing two flights of stairs. Your doctor may recommend stress testing before prescribing ED medications.

Getting the Most from Treatment

Viagra works best as part of an overall approach to sexual health. Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, balanced diet, adequate sleep, stress management, and limited alcohol. These factors all affect erectile function. Address any relationship issues or performance anxiety with counseling if needed.

Be patient when starting treatment. The first dose may not work perfectly, and it can take a few attempts to find the right dose and timing. Keep trying—most men find success with proper use. When ordering through an electronic pharmacy, ensure you have an ongoing relationship with a healthcare provider for proper monitoring and dose adjustments.

Source: Niessink, R., Other stimulating substances. In: Drugs and Alcohol. Use, Misuse and Addiction. Houten, 2008