Frequently asked questions about Viagra

What is Viagra?

This is probably one of the most famous drugs in the world: famous because it cures erectile dysfunction (ED). This is the name given to the condition when a man cannot get or maintain an erection in response to sexual stimulation. The generic name for Viagra is sildenafil citrate.

How does Viagra work?

In most countries, Viagra is only available on prescription and it works by dilating the arteries leading into the penis. This allows more blood to flow inside and inflates the penis into an erection. When sexual activity is complete, the blood flows out and the erection fades away.

How long does it take for Viagra to work?

It usually takes about 30 minutes for Viagra to reach a sufficient concentration in the blood to begin working. The effect lasts for about four hours. In one clinical trial involving more than two-hundred participants with prior experience in using Viagra successfully, the highest allowable dose of 100mg enabled 35% to produce an erection hard enough to achieve penetration in under 15 minutes. All but 15% were able to penetrate within 20 minutes.

How often can I take Viagra?

The standard instruction given by doctors and pharmacists is to use Viagra only once every 24 hours. But this instruction is varied in some cases, e.g. when the man is taking drugs to control an HIV infection, where it can be dangerous if the dose exceeds 25mg in a 48 hour period. As in the case of all prescription only drugs, you should always follow the directions given by your doctor or pharmacist.

Can I take Viagra with alcohol and food?

As to alcohol, the advice is to avoid anything more than social drinking. Both Viagra and alcohol reduce your blood pressure. If you combine the two in quantity, the reduction in blood pressure is sufficient to prevent an erection.

As to food, there is no effect on Viagra as such, but eating a heavy meal with a high fat content slows down the digestive process to absorb the drug into your blood stream. If you choose to eat a cheeseburger or something similar, allow more time for the drug to take effect.

Can I take Viagra with other medicines?

There are always potential problems when you take two or more drugs at the same time and you should always consult your doctor to ensure that there will be no adverse interactions. In this case, avoid taking any drug that contains a nitrate. This includes both the legal drugs to treat angina and other heart-related problems, and the street drugs. For the same reason, alpha blockers and other drugs used to treat high blood pressure should be used with caution. In all these cases, a sudden and dangerous drop in blood pressure may result. There are other potential problems, e.g. the use of protease inhibitors to treat an HIV infection. Always take advice before using Viagra.

What are Viagra’s side effects?

Very few men report serious side effects. A small percentage experience a headache and an upset stomach. There can also be a flushing of the cheeks and neck. In less common cases, the vision and hearing can be affected. If all you experience is seeing the world with a slight tinge of blue, this should fade naturally. But if you suddenly lose vision or hearing, this is a medical emergency and you should go to hospital. Similarly, if you experience the symptoms of a sudden loss of blood pressure, e.g. chest pain, fast heart rate and fainting, or your erection is painful and lasts too long, go to a hospital.

You will find more information on Viagra’s safety here.

What if Viagra does not work?

Not all drugs work the first time. A doctor will advise, but trying three or four times at the first dosage is recommended. If you continue to fail, you can slowly increase the dosage up to a maximum of 100mg. In clinical trials, 80% of men regained their ability to form a hard erection at 100mg. If you continue to fail, it suggests that the underlying cause of your erectile dysfunction requires a different form of treatment. Ask you doctor how to proceed.