Sildenafil, better known by its trade name Viagra, is a medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis, thus facilitating an erection. In this article, let’s find out some interesting facts about this drug.

1. What is Viagra?

Sildenafil (Viagra) belongs to a group of medicines called phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. It may be prescribed if you have erection problems. Contrary to what you might think, taking sildenafil alone does not cause an erection. In fact, Sildenafil only works if you are excited.

2. How long does it take for it to take effect?

It usually takes 30 to 60 minutes for Sildenafil to work for erectile dysfunction. However, it is possible to take it up to 4 hours before you want to have sex. Sildenafil, in fact, begins to work between one and four hours after its intake. It can also be taken with food. The erection usually disappears after having sex.

3. Does Viagra really work for erectile dysfunction?

Yes, sildenafil works well for erectile dysfunction. In general, at least two out of three men say they have better erections after taking it.

If sildenafil doesn’t work, it could be because:

• you haven’t waited long enough after taking it before trying to have sex;
• you waited too long after taking it to have sex;
• the dosage is not high enough;
• You’re not sexually aroused enough.

4. Who can and cannot take Viagra?

Sildenafil for erectile dysfunction can be used from 18 years of age and older.

But Sildenafil isnot suitable for some people. In particular, it is important to always consult your doctor before taking Sildenafil if:

• You have had an allergic reaction to sildenafil (Viagra) or other medicines in the past
• You are taking medicines called nitrates for chest pain
• You have a serious heart or liver problem
• You have recently had a stroke or heart attack
• You suffer from low blood pressure

You should always talk to your doctor before taking Sildenafil if:

• You have sickle cell anemia (an abnormality of the red blood cells), leukemia (cancer of the blood cells), or multiple myeloma (cancer of the bone marrow)
• You have a penile deformity or Peyronie’s disease (curved penis)
• You have heart problems
• You suffer from stomach ulcers or bleeding problems such as hemophilia.

5. How much Viagra to take for erectile dysfunction?

Sildenafil tablets for erectile dysfunction are available in different dosages ranging from 25 mg to 100 mg. The usual dose is 50 mg but can be increased to 100 mg or reduced to 25 mg depending on its effect. In any case, Sildenafil cannot be taken more than once a day.

Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water or juice (but not grapefruit juice). For erectile dysfunction, it is best to take sildenafil on an empty stomach. It may take longer to work if you take it with food.

6. What if I take too much?

Accidentally taking too much sildenafil can cause unpleasant side effects, such as:

• headache
• dizziness
• indigestion
• Stuffy nose
• Impaired vision

Consult your doctor if you have taken too much sildenafil and if you experience any of these side effects.

7. Does Viagra have any side effects?

Like all medicines, sildenafil can cause side effects in some people. Many people have no side effects or only experience minor side effects.

Common side effects (which affect more than 1 in 100 people) include headache, malaise, hot flashes, facial flushing, indigestion, blurred vision, stuffy nose and dizziness.

Serious side effects (which are rare and occur in less than 1 in 1,000 people) include chest pain, a prolonged and uncomfortable or painful erection, a sudden decrease or loss of vision, severe skin reactions, fever, peeling and swelling of the skin, blistering on the mouth, genitals and around the eyes, and seizures

Finally, in rare cases, it is possible to have a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to sildenafil.

8. Are there any dangerous interactions between Viagra and other medications?

It can be dangerous to take Sildenafil if you also take medicines called nitrates (often given for chest pain). The combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. It is always good practice to contact your doctor, also because he will always have to prescribe the drug.

9. Will taking Viagra decrease my fertility?

No. There is no scientific evidence that taking Sildenafil leads to a decrease in fertility.

10. Are there alternatives to Viagra?

Yes! Some alternative treatments to Viagra to treat erectile dysfunction include:

• The vacuum pump (a mechanical device that uses the vacuum created by a suction pump to induce the erection of the penis)
• Psychotherapy
• Penile prostheses
• Exercises for the pelvic floor muscles.

Erectile dysfunction can also often be improved if you make certain lifestyle changes, such as:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Quit smoking
• Reduce the amount of alcohol
• Don’t take drugs
• Exercise
• Reduce stress