Is Viagra safe?

Viagra is a powerful prescription only drug and it should not be taken by everyone. Although it has a strong record of safety with few serious side effects, you should check with a doctor to make sure it is safe for you to take it.

What is the main danger?

Viagra affects your blood pressure so never add Viagra to a mix of drugs if those other drugs also reduce blood pressure. The main danger comes from all drugs (both prescription, OTC and street) that contain nitrates (e.g. nitroglycerin for angina and other heart-related problems). No matter how often you take these drugs, never mix in Viagra.

What are the main side effects?

The most common and least serious side effects encountered by those taking Viagra are:

» flushing of the face and neck

» headache

» upset stomach

Any of the ED drugs may cause priapism, a rare effect where the erection lasts an unnatural period of time and grows painful. If you do not go to a hospital immediately, there is a risk of long-term injury.

More unusual are a blurring of vision and a sudden sensitivity to bright light. Some have reported their vision to be tinged with a blue color.

In exceptionally rare cases, men taking ED drugs including Viagra have reported a sudden loss of vision, a loss of hearing or both. There is no clear evidence as to the cause, i.e. whether the loss of vision or hearing is a direct reaction to the ED drug or to other factors. If this happens to you, treat it as a medical emergency and go to a hospital.

What are the safety issues?

Clinical trials and practical experience have shown Viagra to be safe in men suffering from other health problems including high blood pressure, high levels of cholesterol, heart disease, diabetes, prostate problems, and depression.

But deciding which drugs to combine for the treatment and their dosage should always be decided by your doctor. For example, lower dosages will be indicated if you take alpha blockers to control blood pressure or protease inhibitors for the treatment of HIV. In some cases, your doctor may limit you to no more than a dose of 25mg of Viagra in any 48 hour period.

Older men or men suffering from serious kidney or liver problems should probably start with a low dosage, i.e. 25mg. The same will apply if you have been diagnosed with prostate problems.

Talk with your doctor

In the US, you have to talk with your doctor to get a prescription. In the UK, some licensed pharmacists may also prescribe Viagra over the counter. If you have an inactive lifestyle, but now propose to resume sexual activity, a thorough medical check-up is wise to ensure you will not be at risk if you suddenly begin exerting yourself.