If you are new to using Viagra, there must be some questions that are in your mind right now. How does it work? How long does Viagra last? Is it safe for you? How can you make it work with the best results?
These are common but essential questions you should be asking. Having said that, let us give answers to these questions.
Viagra: The Wonder Drug for Erectile Dysfunction
Sildenafil, more commonly known as Viagra, is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence in men (1). ED is defined as the inability to maintain a penile erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance.
Viagra is proven to treat ED but barely has any effect on low libido, premature ejaculation, infertility, and endocrinal impotence (2).
6 Questions to Ask About Viagra
If you want to make the most of your ED medication, you have to learn how it works. Likewise, you must familiarize yourself with the best practices in taking Viagra. These questions should help you learn more about this wonder drug:
Question #1: How Does Viagra Work?
Viagra increases the blood flow to the penis so you can keep an erection hard enough to have sex.
Sildenafil blocks a predominant enzyme in the body called cGMP-specific phosphodiesterase (PDE-5). It breaks down the said enzyme, which induces the smooth muscles to relax. Increased levels of PDE-5 result in vasodilation or the widening of blood vessels, keeping your penis hard (3).
Question #2: How Much Viagra Should I Take for the First Time?
Usually, doctors recommend 50 mg of Viagra per intake. However, prescriptions may vary depending on the situation. This may range from 25 mg to 100 mg.
Before taking any ED medication, always consult a doctor first. If you were prescribed a lower dosage of Viagra, don’t take more to prolong its effects. Taking a dose larger than what’s prescribed can take a toll on your body and may worsen the side effects.
Question #3: How Long Does It Take for Sildenafil to Take Effect?
In general, sildenafil starts to work 30-60 minutes after intake.
Like any other ED medication, you have to give it enough time for it to take effect. Several factors may also affect the time needed for sildenafil to work. This includes the amount of food you eat and the consumption of fatty food.
Some believe that taking Viagra with an empty stomach makes the drug work faster. This is because nothing will slow down its absorption in your digestive system.
Keep in mind that Viagra will not cause an erection. You have to be stimulated for it to work. It will then help you sustain your erection.
Question #4: How Long Does Viagra Last?
As stated in question #2, the usual dose given or prescribed is 50 mg.
A 50 mg dose may last for up to four hours since your intake. This may vary for each individual depending on age, diet, and general health. Alcohol and other medications can also affect the little blue pill’s duration of action.
Taking Viagra at a lower or higher dosage can also affect how long it lasts.
Question #5: What Are Viagra’s Side Effects?
For the sake of safety, you must learn about the possible side effects of taking this medication. The said ED drug could cause both common and severe side effects.
Common side effects include:
- Abnormal vision
- Back pain
- Dizziness
- Flushing
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Nausea
- Rash
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Upset stomach
Serious side effects include:
- Priapism. This happens when an erection does not go away even after more than four hours. Get medical help immediately, as this can permanently damage your penis if not treated immediately.
- Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes. Experiencing this can signify that you have a serious eye problem called nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). Medical help is advised.
- A sudden decrease in hearing or hearing loss. When you experience ringing in the ears, stop taking your ED medication, and consult with your doctor.
Aside from the side effects mentioned above, watch out for drug interactions. These may affect the efficacy of the drugs you are taking. For example, taking Viagra with heart medications such as nitrates can lower your blood pressure to a dangerous level (4).
Talk to your doctor before taking any ED medication to avoid these side effects.
Question #6: How to Use Viagra for Best Results?
Viagra works best when taken in the right conditions. Here are some Viagra tips and tricks to get the most of your medication:
- Take Viagra daily. According to urologist Irwin Goldstein, daily intake of Viagra can prevent impotence (5). However, avoid taking more than one daily pill and stick with the recommended dose.
- Avoid heavy, fatty meals before taking Viagra. High-fat meals slow down the drug’s absorption, preventing it from working correctly or quickly as it should.
- Never drink alcohol after taking a dose of the little blue pill. Doing so may lower your blood pressure and decrease the effectiveness of the ED medication.
- Buy only from trusted suppliers. Avoid counterfeit ED drugs. Fakes are often cheap and way too accessible (e.g., checkups or prescriptions are not required).
- Observe a healthy lifestyle. Certain risk factors like obesity, stress, smoking and drinking can contribute to ED’s development. Aim to lose weight, reduce stress, stop smoking, and quit drinking for the best results.
- Seek a doctor’s advice. This is one tip that we can’t stress enough. Before taking any ED medication, ask your doctor first. Keep in mind that the male health dilemma can’t always be solved with a pill.
Summary: Frequently Asked Questions About Viagra
Viagra is proven to work against various cases of ED. Some even consider it a wonder drug. But to achieve optimum results, you have to learn a few essential things first about the said medication.
Familiarity with details like dosage, the onset of action, side effects, and best practices is necessary to benefit from the little blue pill fully. Now that we have answered the top questions, though, we hope that you can finally get to enjoy your time in bed with your partner.
Got more questions other than how long does Viagra last? Leave a comment below, and we’ll discuss them with you.