Viagra
What is Viagra?
Viagra is an oral prescription pill, which is taken by men who have erectile dysfunction problems. This problem is also determined as total loss of erection or the inability to maintain an erection. Viagra is manufactured by Pfizer and it was launched in 1998 in many countries worldwide. The European Union and FDA approved the sale of Viagra in the UK and the US respectively. It is also available in many European nations.
How does Viagra work?
Viagra contains sildenafil citrate, as active ingredient, which works in the body to increase the flow of blood to areas surrounding the penis. Viagra works by blocking PDE5. When PDE5 is blocked, chemicals called cGMP responsible for erection remain in the penis, so the blood vessels in the penis remain dilated. This allows blood to stay longer in the penis helping in erection. Viagra is not an aphrodisiac. Its intake can result in sexual arousal only under the sexual stimulation. Viagra cannot increase the sex drive. It cannot cure erectile dysfunction.
In what dosages is Viagra available?
Viagra is available in tablet form in three strengths, which include 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. The standard dosage of Viagra is one tablet in 24 hours period, which is recommended by the doctor, and should be taken one hour prior to sexual activity. It may cause side effects if higher dosages of Viagra are taken without consultation with doctor.
What are the contraindications for Viagra?
· Viagra is not safe for use by women and children
· Those men who are already taking drugs, which contain nitrates, as ingredients are advised not to take Viagra. The combination of Viagra and nitrate drugs cause low blood pressure in the body at unsafe levels
· Men with history of stroke or heart problems should take doctor’s consent before opting for Viagra for treating erectile dysfunction.
Side effects
The most common side effects of Viagra include headache, stomach ache, a blocked nose, diarrhoea, and flushing. Some users may also suffer temporary visual problems such as blurred vision or change in perception.
Some rare side effects of Viagra include priapism, which is the continuous erection of the penis for four hours or more. This can cause possible damage to the penis if the patient does not seek immediate medical attention.
Precautions
· Drinking alcohol along with intake of Viagra can result in occurrence of some side effects
· Viagra should not be used for recreational purposes
· Other treatments drugs for impotence should be avoided
· In case of over dosage of Viagra, patients should seek immediate medical help
Brief description
Viagra is the first drug for the treatment of erectile dysfunction. It is manufactured by Pfizer. The active ingredient in Viagra is sildenafil citrate. It is available only on prescription and only men can take it. It should not be taken by women and children. It is available in three strengths of 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. Some of the common side effects of Viagra are headache, flushing, and nasal congestion.