Viagra: From Being Impotent To Potent

Erectile Dysfunction, as complicated as it sounds, is not that rare of a disorder. It is a male-only disorder which is more prevalent with age. Commonly referred to as Impotence, it is a condition whereby the person finds it difficult to obtain or maintain a sufficient erection required for a sexual intercourse. The underlying cause can be either physical or psychological. Physical causes can include nerve blockages, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and so on. Psychological causes may include stress, anxiety, depression, loss of interest and the like. Smoking and regular alcohol consumption are also some associated causes.

Erectile Dysfunction (or Impotence) is not a rare and untreatable disorder. There are various treatments available in the market today for treating this problem. These include surgeries, use of external devices, or medications in the form of tablets or capsules. ED medications are considered to be a safe and sound solution for this disorder and are mostly recommended by doctors for patients suffering from ED.

These pills are not only able to bring back a proper erection but can also bring back the long lost confidence in men. Impotence can take a big toll on relationships, causing communication gaps and differences. It is always advisable that the partner is supportive in such cases. Consultation with a trusted doctor is necessary to find an effective solution.

Viagra: About this effective ED pill

Viagra, also known as Sildenafil, is a form of PDE5 inhibitor that can treat erectile dysfunction in men. It is an oral prescription drug which is mostly recommended by doctors to treat erectile dysfunction.

By inhibiting the release of certain enzymes called PDE5 (phosphodiesterase type 5), Viagra slows down the degradation of cGMP (cyclic guanosine monophosphate) which is produced in the presence of Nitric oxide. It is to be noted that nitric oxide is released only when there is a sexual stimulation.  cGMP then relaxes the smooth muscles causing the blood to flow freely to the penile nerve, causing an erection.

How should I take Viagra?

•    It is recommended to take Viagra 30 to 60 minutes before a sexual activity.

•    It starts showing its effect after 30 to 40 minutes of its intake.

•    You can start from as low as 50 mg. The maximum dose is 200 mg.

•    It may be taken with or without food.

•    The effects of Viagra last for 2-3 hours after taking it.

•    Viagra should be taken once a day.

Drug Interactions with Viagra:

 Viagra may interact with the following list of drugs-

•    Nitrates

•    Guanylate cyclase stimulators

•    HIV protease inhibitors

•    Anti-fungal medicine

•    Medicines for high blood pressure

•    Antibiotics which contain telithromycin, clarithromycin or erythromycin

•    Certain medications for seizures.

This is not a complete list of possible drug interactions with Viagra. If you are taking any other prescription or non-prescription medication, make sure to inform your doctor about the same.

Possible Side Effects of Viagra:

Consult your doctor immediately if you come across any of the following side effects-

• •        Headache
• •        Dizziness
• •        Drowsiness
• •        Runny nose
• •        Nosebleeds
• •        Stomach trouble
• •        Muscle pain
• •        Stiff muscles
• ·         Nausea
• •        Vomiting

Important Information:

•    People with cardiovascular problems should avoid taking Viagra as there are risks associated with high blood pressure, increased heart rate, chest pain or even a cardiac arrest.

•    Patients with severe renal impairment are not recommended to use this drug as there can be drug accumulation in the body due to poor functioning of the kidneys.

•    There is also a high risk associated with vision loss and hearing impairment if these PDE5 inhibitors are used for an extended period of time.

•    This medication is not meant for use in women or children, and hence, should be strictly prohibited.

•    It is a constant reminder that ED pills do not protect you against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and different measures for the same should be taken separately.

•    Alcohol consumption should be avoided while taking this medication as there are possible chances of unwanted interactions between the two. Alcohol will not only dull the effects of Viagra but might also increase the chances of its side effects.