Even though 100 milligrams of Viagra is considered a weak dose, you must still remember that it can help you sustain an erection for up to four hours. In fact, this particular dose of the erectile dysfunction medication was developed after extensive clinical trials.
Based on these studies, the FDA approved this particular dose for use in men with erectile dysfunction, though the agency cautioned that there is no fixed dose for this drug and suggested that your doctor or pharmacist consults be called for an individualized treatment plan. What this means is that doctors and technicians have found a specific dose to work best for specific patients. This is called drug therapy optimization and is an important concept to understand when taking any medication.
While the drug is effective at treating erectile dysfunction, it does come with some significant side effects. According to the FDA, some of these include:
- headache
- dizziness
- unusual excitement or stimulation
- increased blood pressure
- heart attack
- vision problems
Though rare, these side effects are still considered problematic and potentially serious. In fact, they have prevented the FDA from approving this drug for children. Because of this, if you or any member of your family has hypertension, heart disease, or diabetes, you should not take the drug without first consulting your doctor.
How Long Does Viagra Last?
The time it takes for Viagra to begin working is considered a major factor in determining how long it will last. In general, the medication takes thirty to sixty minutes to begin with, though this can vary significantly based on the individual drug-to-patient ration.
For example, the effect of the medication can be felt almost immediately in some men, while in others, it takes a bit longer. In most cases, the effect will last for four to six hours and in the worst case, this can extend to eight hours. Again, this is highly dependent on the patient and their specific circumstances.
Is It Safe To Take With Other Medications?
In addition to having an effect on erectile dysfunction, Viagra is also known to work in combination with certain medications. In particular, it was found to improve the effectiveness of the following drugs:
- atenolol
- bio-metric insulin
- blood thinners
- losartan
- nicotinic acid
- oral contraceptives
Other studies have shown that Viagra can also potentiate the effects of the following medications:
- flecainide
- hydralazine
- isradipine
- tadalafil
- terazosin
The interactions between these drugs and Viagra are complex and sometimes unpredictable, meaning that the effect of the combination is often greater than the sum of its parts. Because of this, you should consult with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication, especially if you are already being treated for another medical condition.
What Forms Does Viagra Come In?
Like many prescription medications, Viagra is also available in a variety of forms, including tablets, softgels, and injections. Though the tablet form is generally the most convenient for patients, doctors, and pharmacists, many feel that the injection form is the most effective when administered directly into the penis (it helps to even out the blood pool in the penis and allows for a more reliable erection).
The softgel form, which is a more recent development, is designed to minimize the digestive effects that harsh tablet coatings can have on the stomach. In addition, the gel-like consistency of the medication means it tends to melt in the mouth, allowing for better taste experience.
Overall Review:
Taking into account all the information above, it is clear that Viagra can be quite a helpful medication for men with erectile dysfunction. Though the medication is considered a hypo-allergenic drug and has been proven safe for use in very large populations, especially when taken in combination with other medications, individuals with certain medical conditions may be at a higher risk of experiencing significant side effects. In particular, those who have experienced heart problems in the past should consult with their doctors before starting treatment.