How Long Does Viagra Last: Effect and Working

Viagra is a medication to treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED).

It contains Sildenafil as an active ingredient.

Viagra was the first medication that got FDA approval to treat ED in men or assigned males at birth (AMAB).

In this article, we will understand how long does Viagra last and how it works.

How long does Viagra last

Viagra might last up to 3 to 5 hours

The effects usually start to wear off within three hours of consumption.

However, some factors might affect the lasting effects of Sildenafil.

These factors include your health, dosage, metabolism, and other factors.

An individual can get multiple erections within 5 hours of consuming.

But, after ejaculation, your body might not be able to get an erection right away. This is known as the refractory period, in which your body takes time to recover.

As per a study, Sildenafil can reduce this refractory time and help recover faster.

Factors that affect how long Viagra last

As mentioned earlier, some factors might affect the lasting effects of Viagra.

Viagra TabletSource: Iurii_Maksymiv
Doctor is holding Blue Pill

These factors are,

Age

Age plays a huge role in determining the duration of Viagra in your system. Metabolism slows down as you get older. As a result, the medicine might stay longer in your body.

Dosage

The amount of dosage you are consuming can affect how long Viagra last in your system. For example, a 50 mg strength of Viagra will wear off before a 100 mg dose.

Food 

High-fat meals can slow the absorption process of Viagra. As the medicine will absorb with the meal, it might also make it last longer.

Lifestyle habits

Smoking and alcoholism might also affect the effects of Viagra on your body. These habits can reduce the blood circulation to the penis, making this medication shorter-lasting.

Overall health

Certain medical conditions can affect Viagra and make it shorter-lasting. Conditions that might affect Viagra are Atherosclerosis, Diabetes, and Multiple Sclerosis.

How Viagra works

As mentioned, Viagra contains Sildenafil as an active ingredient.

Sildenafil belongs to the class of Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors.

By inhibiting the PDE5 enzyme, it promotes the production of cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP).

Increased cGMP levels relax the smooth muscle and dilate blood vessels in the penile area.

This dilation help in boosting blood circulation in the penis, which in turn results in an erection.

However, to get an erection, sexual stimulation is essential.

How fast does Viagra work

Blue PillsSource: Africa_Images
Blue Pills

Viagra (Sildenafil) usually starts to work within 30 minutes of consumption in most people.

But, its peak effects are visible after an hour.

Therefore, it is recommended to take this medicine 30 to 60 minutes before sexual intercourse and not more than 4 hours.

The onset of action also depends on your health and the type of meal you had before taking this medicine.

High-fat meals are known to delay the absorption of Sildenafil.

Suggestions:
It is advised to take Sildenafil on an empty stomach or after a light meal..

Ultimately

Typically, Viagra lasts for 3 to 5 hours in an individual.

However, it can vary from person to person.

Factors like age, health conditions, food, lifestyle habits, and dosage might affect its effects.

Some factors can make Viagra last longer, and some can make it shorter-lasting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Viagra stay in your system?

Viagra can stay in your system for 3 to 5 hours. 
The effects of this medication will start to wear off after 2 to 3 hours and completely leave your system within 5 hours.
However, this depends on an individual’s health, lifestyle habits, dosage, and meals taken.

How long does it take for Viagra to peak?

Viagra might start to work within 30 minutes of consumption. But its peak effects will be visible after an hour.

Does Viagra help you last longer?

Viagra is only known to treat Erectile Dysfunction in men. Therefore, it will not help you last longer.
Premature Ejaculation might be treated with medication containing Dapoxetine, like Duratia.

Citations:
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Jim Carson

Jim Carson is the writer for the men's health and mental health section of CheapMedicineShop.com. He is certified in clinical mental health counselling and has a knee interest in men's sexual wellness . Professionally and personally, Jim is an astute observer of human behaviour that reflects well in his work.