Have you ever wondered how the medication Viagra works? If you’ve been searching for an answer to this question, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will discuss the working of Viagra and how it differs from other ED treatments.
What Is Viagra?
Viagra is a medication commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It was approved for use in the United States in the year 1997 and has since been prescribed to over two million men. It treats erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the penis, restoring erectile function and strengthening the muscles that surround the blood vessels in the penis. Its brand name, Sildenafil, is a combination of the words “sild” (Latin for “healing”) and “nafil” (a chemical that improves blood flow).
History Of Viagra
The discovery of Viagra was originally attributed to a scientist named Kip Thomas. In the 1960s, he was studying the effects of amphetamine on the human body and noted that the drug improved erectile dysfunction in rats who had been bred to develop the condition. He also noticed that the rats who had been treated with amphetamine had increased blood flow to their genitals, even during sleep. After he made these findings, he received a lot of criticism from his peers because they did not believe that his findings would translate to humans. However, Thomas was undeterred and continued his research in the field of sexual medicine. In the 1970s, he isolated a molecule from the blood of rats that had been treated with amphetamine and dubbed it “Viagra.” This molecule was later identified as having a chemical structure that is very similar to sildenafil. In 1991, it was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in treating erectile dysfunction. Since then, it has been prescribed to over 2 million men and is currently available in over 60 countries.
How Does Viagra Work Mechanically?
When a man gets an erection, it is usually because his brain is sending signals to his penis that cause it to tighten and expand. This is controlled by a complex neurological system involving the nerves and hormones. The erection will vanish once the man gets tired or bored, or upon orgasm. Unfortunately, many men suffer from a condition called “ejaculatory dysfunction” which prevents them from experiencing orgasm during vaginal intercourse. Ejaculatory dysfunction can also be caused by certain medications or alcohol, among other things. In cases like this, the man will not be able to achieve or maintain an erection for sexual intercourse. This is why it is important for men to consult with their doctors about potential causes of ejaculatory dysfunction before starting any kind of medication or therapy.
How Is It Different From Other Medications For Erectile Dysfunction?
Although Viagra is a popular choice for men who want to treat their erectile dysfunction, it is not the only option available. There are a number of other medications that can be used to treat erectile dysfunction, including the following:
- Sildenafil
- Tadalafil
- Vardenafil
- Cialis
- Levitra
- Prilosec
These medications work by increasing blood flow to the penis or by boosting the neurotransmitters in the brain that control erectile function. Some of these medications are also available in a transdermal form which can be used to treat erectile dysfunction. The major differences between these medications are their effectiveness and their side effect profiles. While all of these medications can dramatically improve the quality of a man’s life if used properly, it is important to keep in mind that some men may experience serious side effects including heart attacks and strokes if they are not used properly. This is why it is essential to consult with a physician before starting any kind of therapy or medication.
Are There Any Side Effects From Viagra?
Like most medications, there are usually mild to moderate side effects which are associated with taking Viagra. These effects are generally benign and go away once the medication is stopped. The most common side effects include indigestion, headaches, and nasal congestion. However, in rare instances, men have experienced more serious side effects including myocardial infarction (heart attack), stroke, and sudden death. While these effects are extremely rare, they do exist and it is imperative that men take them seriously. If a man experiences any of these side effects, then he should immediately stop taking the medication and contact his physician. Luckily, these serious side effects are extremely rare and can be avoided with careful screening of candidates and supervision by experienced physicians.
How Long Does It Take For Viagra To Work?
The effects of Viagra generally start acting within 30 minutes and last for 3 to 6 hours. In rare cases, it can take up to 24 hours for the full effects of the medication to be felt. It is, therefore, important for men to take the medication at least 30 minutes before having sex or undergoing any procedures that require an erection. The length of time that it takes for a medication to work is a common question amongst men who are just starting its use. While it can take a little while to discern the exact length of time that it takes for your specific medication to work, the general rule of thumb is to try a new medication for 2 to 4 weeks before judging its effectiveness.
For many men, the benefits of Viagra far outweigh its risks. However, it is still a medication which carries some risks and should be used responsibly by men who want to avoid these side effects. If you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction or the side effects mentioned above, then it’s definitely time to consider trying this medication. If not, there are other options which may be a better fit for your needs.