Viagra

What is Viagra?

Viagra, with the active ingredient sildenafil citrate, is a prescription medication widely recognized for treating erectile dysfunction (ED)—the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual activity. Approved by the FDA in 1998, Viagra has become one of the most popular and effective treatments for ED.

How Viagra Works

Viagra belongs to a class of medications called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. During sexual arousal, nitric oxide is released in the penile tissues, stimulating the production of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). This chemical relaxes smooth muscles and allows blood to flow freely into the penis, resulting in an erection. PDE5 enzymes typically break down cGMP, leading to the loss of an erection. Viagra inhibits the PDE5 enzyme, prolonging the action of cGMP and helping to maintain an erection during sexual stimulation.

Uses of Viagra

Viagra is primarily prescribed for:

• Erectile Dysfunction (ED): Helping men with ED achieve and sustain an erection.
• Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH): Under the brand name Revatio, sildenafil is also used to treat high blood pressure in the lungs.

Dosage and Administration

Viagra is available in 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg and 200 mg tablets.

• Recommended Dose: Typically, a 50 mg dose is prescribed, taken about 30-60 minutes before sexual activity.
• Timing: The effects last 4-5 hours, though this can vary.
• Consumption: It should be taken on an empty stomach for faster onset; a high-fat meal can delay its action.

Who Can Use Viagra?

Viagra is generally safe for adult men with ED. However, it must be prescribed by a healthcare provider after evaluating the patient's health. It is not intended for use by:

• Women or children.
• Men without erectile dysfunction.
• Individuals allergic to sildenafil.

Who Should Avoid Viagra?

Viagra should not be used in the following conditions:

• If you take nitrates for chest pain (e.g., nitroglycerin). Severe liver or kidney disease.
• Low blood pressure or recent stroke/heart attack.
• Retinitis pigmentosa (a rare genetic eye condition).

Common Side Effects

While Viagra is generally well-tolerated, some users may experience:

• Headache
• Flushing (redness of the face, neck, or chest)
• Nasal congestion
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Upset stomach
• Vision changes (e.g., blue-tinted vision, sensitivity to light)

Most side effects are mild and temporary, but users should report severe or persistent issues to their doctor.

Rare but Serious Side Effects

• Priapism: A prolonged and painful erection lasting more than 4 hours.
• Vision Loss: Rare cases of sudden vision loss due to non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION).
• Hearing Loss: Sudden decrease or loss of hearing.
Seek immediate medical attention if any of these occur.



Drug Interactions

Viagra may interact with certain medications, including:
• Nitrates: Can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
• Alpha-blockers: Used for high blood pressure or prostate conditions.
• Other ED medications: Avoid combining with other PDE5 inhibitors.
• Certain antifungal or antibiotic medications (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin).
Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking before using Viagra.



Effectiveness

Viagra has been shown to be highly effective, with clinical studies reporting improvement in erectile function for the majority of men who take it. However, sexual stimulation is necessary for it to work.



Storage and Handling

Store Viagra at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F) in its original packaging. Keep it away from moisture and out of reach of children.