It’s no secret that teenagers love their mobile phones. According to a 2016 report from Juniper Research, there are currently 247 million monthly active users between the ages of 13 and 34, accounting for approximately 40% of total internet usage. While it might seem like a no-brainer that a drug designed for sexual dysfunction would result in heightened interest in sex, things aren’t always as straightforward as they appear. Viagra, popularly known as the “herald of male potency” has been around for over 30 years and is currently one of the most popular drugs among younger users. Does Viagra work for teens? What are the side effects? Will your insurance cover it? Let’s take a closer look.
The Evolution of Viagra
Originally developed in the 1950s, Viagra was originally intended to be used as a treatment for angina pectoris and heart disease. The drug was first approved for use in 1987 and was subsequently marketed for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension, benign prostatic hypertrophy, and erectile dysfunction. Since its approval, Viagra has become extremely popular and is currently the best-selling drug in the world. In 2016, global revenues were valued at over US$14 billion, with an estimated 16.7 million prescriptions written worldwide each year. The Global Industry Analysis & Forecast Society (GISA) has predicted that by 2021, the market value of the global erectile dysfunction drugs market will hit US$50 billion.
How Does Viagra Work?
Viagra is a phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor. PDE5 is an enzyme that breaks down cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), which in turn leads to enhanced relaxation and smooth muscle relaxation of blood vessels, especially in the corpus cavernosum where erectile tissue is located. By inhibiting PDE5, Viagra causes increased blood flow into the penis, resulting in an erection. The substance is highly effective in treating erectile dysfunction, even in cases where the disease is complex or involves patients who are highly unlikely to respond favorably to other therapies. In clinical trials, Viagra demonstrated efficacy in raising erectile function and in some cases, even in treating female sexual dysfunction. It is worth noting that even though it was approved for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, Viagra is generally considered safe for use throughout the body, with the exception of the inner ear where toxicity is known to occur.
What Are The Brand Names Of Viagra?
As noted above, Viagra is a phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) inhibitor and is thus available as generic Viagra as well as a variety of branded variants such as Cialis, Levitra, and Stendra. Like many other prescription medicines, different manufacturers produce different versions of Viagra, which may provide additional benefits such as longer-lasting erections or different side effect profiles. While generic Viagra is available almost everywhere, branded variants of the drug are commonly found in pharmacies and health food stores. Brand loyalty among consumers is extremely high and any deviation from the norm may cause customers to become disenchanted or even dissatisfied. The availability of different versions of Viagra ensures that even patients who are prescribed a different drug will have access to the medicine they need, without the fear of running out of it if they run out of their prescribed medication.
Is There A Maximum Age For Viagra?
While Viagra is safe and effective for use by adults of all ages, it is not specifically recommended for use by elderly people or those with decreased kidney function. The prescribing information for the drug specifically cautions against using it in patients with severe liver impairment due to the fact that it is poorly removed by the liver, resulting in increased drug exposure and the potential for adverse effects. Patients with severe liver impairment and those who are 65 years of age or older are also identified as high-risk groups for developing heart disease and stroke. Men with liver impairment who are taking anticoagulant medications such as Warfarin are also at an increased risk for major bleeding, especially if they also have cardiovascular disease or hypertension. While the use of Viagra in these patients may be safe and effective, the risks and benefits should be carefully weighed against each other.
Are There Any Side Effects To Viagra?
Even though it has been around for over 30 years and has been prescribed to over 16 million patients worldwide, the side effects of Viagra are generally considered to be minimal. The most commonly reported side effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, and allergic reactions, especially in patients who have previously reacted poorly to medications of this class. More serious side effects include heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes. These patients are at increased risk of heart disease and stroke and should thus be closely monitored by a physician or other healthcare provider for any signs of these adverse effects. In addition to these risks, there are also certain contraindications for the use of Viagra. Men who have previously had a myocardial infarction or severe angina pectoris are among those who should not take the drug. Older patients with severe heart disease are also contraindicated for the use of Viagra, as are men who have previously had a stroke. Like many other drugs, the use of Viagra in these patients is risky and should be avoided if possible.
What Is The Effect Of Viagra On The Sex Drive?
The use of Viagra in men may result in increased sexual desire and activity, even in those patients who are already sexually active. However, this effect is highly variable and it is not uncommon for patients to report either decreased or even no effect. Those who experience increased sexual desire and activity may feel more connected to their partner and are likely to be more engaged in sex as a result of the drug. In general, the use of Viagra in men is considered to be safe and effective for increasing sexual desire and activity. The risks and benefits should be carefully weighed against each other and only a physician who has experience in prescribing and administering similar medications can determine whether or not this therapy is appropriate for a particular patient.
Is Viagra Worth The Risks?
The issue of whether or not to risk factors for heart disease and stroke in order to benefit from increased sexual function is a difficult one. While there is undoubtedly some risk involved in treating ED with a medication like Viagra, the risks are generally considered to be minimal and the benefits may be significant. In patients with severe liver impairment or those who are 65 years of age or older, the risks associated with the use of Viagra are considered to be greater than the benefits. Men with severe liver impairment who are taking anticoagulant medications such as Warfarin are also at an increased risk for major bleeding if they also have cardiovascular disease or hypertension. While the use of Viagra in these patients may be safe and effective, the risks and benefits should be carefully weighed against each other.
Conclusion
Overall, the use of Viagra in men is safe and effective for increasing sexual function and may actually be an appropriate therapy for certain patients who are highly unlikely to respond favorably to other ED therapies. Even though it has been around for over 30 years and has been prescribed to over 16 million patients worldwide, the development of generic and branded variants has ensured that it will remain a popular and effective medication for the treatment of ED, as long as the risks and benefits are correctly considered and discussed with the patient.