In the event that you’re new to the world of medication, your physician may prescribe one of the many ED meds for you, in particular, Viagra and Cialis.
These are a group of medications that work by increasing blood flow into the penis, which in turn boosts the muscle’s capacity to maintain an erection. They’re often taken as a single pill, called a Sildenafil Citrate (S.C.) pill, or as part of a sexual therapy regimen called, “The Maximal Dose Approach.” Some prefer to take them before heading to bed, while others might put it off until later. What’s important is that you understand what is enabling your cock to flourish and why you’re taking the medication in the first place.
The History Of ED Meds
As mentioned, ED medications, or ED drugs, have been around for a while. In fact, Viagra was first approved by the FDA in 1998 and quickly became a bestseller. Since then, it’s remained one of the most prescribed medications in the nation.
But it’s not just the federal government that’s paid attention to Viagra. Both the EU and Australia have designated it as a priority medication. In October 2019 alone, Viagra was prescribed to 731,200 patients across the globe.
These are impressive numbers, especially considering that only 5% of adults suffer from a sexual disorder that prevents them from enjoying romantic encounters with a partner. So even if you’re not one of them, it’s still likely that you know someone who is.
Are These The Only ED Meds Available?
While the success of Viagra and Cialis has made them the gold standard among ED medications, it’s not necessarily the case. As mentioned, Sildenafil Citrate, the active ingredient in both of those medications, works by blocking an enzyme, PDE5, which metabolizes cGMP in the corpus cavernosum (a fluid-filled space at the base of the penis).
This is why these medications often improve erections in men with low nitric oxide levels (i.e., those who have difficulty getting and maintaining an erection). The nitric oxide is a chemical that naturally occurs in the body. When an erection is “primed,” or prompted, Nitric oxide levels naturally increase, which in turn helps improve blood flow into the penis. This makes it easier for the penis to attain an erection. In other words, ED medications like Viagra work by increasing the body’s natural sex drive, which in turn gives men with low sex drives a new reason to get aroused and have sex.
How Effective Are These ED Meds?
Not only do Viagra and Cialis improve erections in some men with low nitric oxide levels, but they also appear to improve sexual drive and satisfaction for many others. According to research, Sildenafil Citrate taken at the same time each day has been shown to significantly improve sexual function in men with low sexual dysfunction. It can also help men with ED manage their symptoms, such as low desire and poor blood flow. Many people choose to take these medications together as a regimen known as,”maximal dose approach.” It’s also important to note that Sildenafil Citrate, the active ingredient in Viagra and Cialis, does not appear to be harmful to humans and has a favorable side effect profile.
Is The Improvement In Sexual Function Permanent?
Most people taking Viagra and/or Cialis for the first time will notice an immediate improvement in erections and/or sexual function. However, it’s not necessarily the case that this improvement will be permanent. According to research, men with ED who take these medications regularly show significant improvement in their penile hemodynamics, but as soon as they stop taking the medication, their ED symptoms return. This, in turn, can cause a significant decrease in their sexual quality of life once more.
What Forms Do Viagra And Cialis Come In?
If you’ve ever taken a drugstore item called, “Viagra,” you probably already know what forms these medications come in. While many people opt for the more traditional tablet form for convenience, these medications can be equally effective when taken as a liquid or a suspension (a sort of oral drug delivery system).
As mentioned, Cialis is a similar medication, with the same active ingredient, Sildenafil Citrate. It also comes in tablet form, but it’s generally prescribed as a brand name, “Cialis Oral Sprayer,” which is more convenient for patients.
What Are The Side Effects For Viagra And Cialis?
It’s important to keep in mind that, like any other medication, Viagra and Cialis are not risk-free. They can cause side effects, especially if taken in excess or without regard for dietary supplements or other medications. Some side effects include:
- headaches
- dizziness
- heart palpitations (rapid heartbeats)
- indigestion
- muscle aches or pain
- stomach aches
- flushing (skin reddening)
- blurred vision
- nasal congestion
These side effects are mostly benign and rarely life-threatening. But for some people, especially those with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure, these side effects can be quite bothersome.
Do You Have To Take These Medications Together?
As mentioned, many men with ED choose to take a regimen of daily, or near-daily, pills to improve their quality of life. But this is not necessarily required. According to research, couples who experience problems in the bedroom may choose to try a less-is-more approach, or vice versa. With this approach, men with ED take one pill, maybe wait an hour or so, and then have sex. If it’s been a while since they’ve had sex and they feel like they want to try something new, they may take another pill before having sex again.
Similarly, women who are experiencing problems with vaginal dryness may choose to try a medication called, “Cetirizine,” which is often used to treat allergies. But if this is not working for vaginal dryness, they may choose to try a different medication, such as a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor, (PDE5i).
The Bottom Line
Overall, Viagra, Cialis, and similar medications are quite effective at treating erectile dysfunction in some men with low sexual function. Even if you’re not one of those men, it’s still quite likely that you know someone who is. These medications can also improve the sexual quality of life for those who experience dysfunction due to low desire or low blood flow into the penis. Furthermore, since they don’t appear to be harmful to humans, there’s no reason to believe that you or anyone close to you will be singled out as a result of taking this medication. While the side effects are generally benign, it’s still pertinent to mention that they may not be desirable for those who have heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure. Of course, if you’re healthy and you want to try something new that doesn’t involve medications or medical devices, then by all means, go for it! Just keep in mind that, for those who want to improve their quality of life, these medications can be quite effective and have a favorable side effect profile. And for those who are just getting started, it’s also quite acceptable to try and see how things go for a while before committing to a maximal dose regimen.