Viagra is a medication that contains Sildenafil as its active ingredient. This medication is a standard treatment for Erectile Dysfunction. It is commonly known as the ‘little blue pill.’
The medicine’s popularity has led to the development of a great deal of false information. People have been using Viagra as a cure-all for all sexual issues.
However, Viagra serves a specific purpose. So what is Viagra used for? This article covers Viagra’s functions and applications in detail.
Table of Contents
What is Viagra used for
Viagra is used to treat the inability to get and maintain an erection. This is a common condition known as Erectile Dysfunction. It affects around 30 million people in the United States.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves Viagra as a treatment for Erectile Dysfunction (ED).
Viagra is the most well-known brand-name treatment for ED. However, generic Viagra (Sildenafil) also serves the same purpose.
Generic Viagra has the same composition and function as Viagra. However, it is sold without the brand name.
How does Viagra work to treat ED
Viagra helps in achieving an erection. To achieve an erection, the penis must have sufficient blood flow. A protein called cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP) increases blood flow in the penis.
Another protein, Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) then breaks down cGMP. It stops blood flow and terminates the erection process. Typically, this is how an erection stops.
However, if this protein begins to act too rapidly, it could impair erectile function.
Viagra functions by blocking the activity of PDE5. This permits the release of cGMP and increases penile blood flow.
Due to this, Sildenafil, the salt in Viagra, is known as a PDE5 inhibitor. Other PDE5 inhibitors that treat ED include Tadalafil (Vidalista), Vardenafil (Levitra), and Avanafil (Avaforce).
Is Viagra effective in treating ED
According to clinical studies, Viagra is effective in reducing ED symptoms. People who used the medicine experienced an improvement in their ability to achieve an erection.
Myth: Viagra is used to increase sex drive.
How to use Viagra for best results
If you know how to use Viagra safely, it is generally easy to take. Knowing when to take Viagra and whether you may take it with food is essential. There are some ways you can achieve better results with Viagra.
Take it 30-60 minutes before sexual intercourse
Viagra typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes to become active and produce effects.
Viagra’s effectiveness depends on various factors, including the individual’s diet and metabolism.
If you take the medication immediately before engaging in sexual activity, it may not work. Thus, it is preferable to take your Viagra dose in advance or as directed by your doctor.
However, do not take Viagra more than four hours before sex, as its effects tend to wear off past that period. It may be safe to take a dose an hour before sexual intercourse. If you are uncertain, consult your healthcare provider.
Try to avoid consuming heavy-fat meals before taking Viagra
Experts advise against having a high-fat meal before taking Viagra. Fatty meals can slow down your body’s ability to absorb Viagra. Thus, it may not be able to produce desirable effects.
You may consume fat, but avoid foods with heavy fat, such as burgers, omelets, or lasagna.
It is advisable to eat a light meal when you’re planning to take Viagra or any other ED medication.
Check for Viagra side effects
According to the FDA, Viagra is generally safe for healthy men. But like all medicines, it may produce specific side effects. The side effects are typical and go away after a few hours as the drug drains out of the body.
Some side effects of Viagra are:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nasal congestion
- Back pain
- Abnormal vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Indigestion
- Flushing
- Muscle pain
- Rash
Your symptoms may be more severe if you exceed the recommended dose. Often, underlying diseases and drug interactions can produce severe side effects.
It is advisable to discuss your medical history with your doctor before taking Viagra. You may be on medications or have conditions that negatively interact with Viagra. In that case, you may need to explore alternatives.
What is Viagra used for other than ED
Sometimes, you may be prescribed Viagra for off-label uses (purposes not specified by the FDA).
The medicine treats Erectile Dysfunction in biological men (people assigned male at birth). However, doctors may recommend Sildenafil (Lovegra) to women to treat female sexual dysfunction.
Viagra may also help with symptoms of High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (a fatal high-altitude sickness). Studies suggest that Sildenafil also treats Raynaud’s Syndrome (decreased blood flow in some body parts).
Additionally, Revatio (a medicine containing Sildenafil) helps treat Pulmonary Hypertension.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is liquid viagra used for?
Generic Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate) is also available as an oral liquid medicine. Similar to Viagra pills, it also helps treat Erectile Dysfunction.
What are the benefits of taking Viagra?
Regularly using Viagra may improve your erectile function. It can halt the development and progression of ED.
Also, taking Viagra daily has additional benefits, such as better urinary health. Make sure to go over your Viagra dose with your doctor and the need for regular use.
What age do men need Viagra?
There is no specific age at which men need Viagra. However, men above 18 can legally take Viagra, as approved by the FDA. People can experience ED at any age.
Young people may struggle with erection problems and need a prescription for Viagra. However, it is more common among older men. At 40, your risk of getting ED increases by 40%.
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