Most men have heard of Viagra, and many have tried it. But what is Viagra, and what is the difference between it and other ED (erectile dysfunction) medications? How effective is it, and which one should you choose? Here’s some information on Viagra, including its side effects and whether it’s right for you.
Viagra: Overview
Generic Viagra (sildenafil citrate, also known as “Viagra”) is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It was approved for sale in the United States in 1998 and has since been prescribed to over seven million men. Its patent has since expired, so it is available at a lower price than most medications.
Viagra is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, which prevents the enzyme in your body responsible for breaking down cGMP (cyclic guanosine monophosphate). This allows for increased blood flow into your penis, resulting in an erection. Sildenafil citrate is the active ingredient in Viagra, and it works by increasing blood flow into your penile region.
The Best Type of Viagra For You
There are four main types of Viagra:
- Generic Viagra (sildenafil citrate)
- Generic Viagra Soft (sildenafil citrate, also known as “Viagra SE”)
- Cialis (Tadalafil)
- Levitra (vardenafil)
The first two are available at a cheaper price than the later two, so if you’re looking for an affordable option, consider one of the first two.
How Does Viagra Work?
Like other ED medications, Viagra works by increasing blood flow to your penile region, resulting in an erection. However, the primary difference between it and most other ED medications is that it is not “reinforced” by another drug. While other ED medications work by increasing the amount of blood your heart pumps into your penis, Viagra works by keeping that blood in your penile region for longer, resulting in better erections.
What Are the Side Effects of Viagra?
The most common side effects of Viagra include headaches, flushing, and upset stomach. These are mild and usually go away after a while. However, some people experience a different side effect with Viagra: It can cause rashes.
If you experience any kind of rash while taking Viagra, discontinue use and contact your doctor. A similar medication, sildenafil citrate, has been known to cause a rash in some people. Although rare, in the event of a severe allergic reaction, you may have to discontinue use of Viagra.
Should You Try Viagra If You’re Still Curious About Erectile Dysfunction?
If you’re still curious about ED and want to try Viagra, here are some general guidelines:
The first thing you need to do is consult with your doctor or healthcare provider. They can tell you how effective and safe Viagra is for your specific situation. Your doctor can also give you tips on how to take the drug most effectively and help you avoid any adverse effects.
Many doctors will also recommend that you try a combination of ED medications to get the best results. If you’re not sure what type of medication would work best for you, ask your doctor. They will have the knowledge necessary to choose the right treatment for your specific situation.
When Should You Not Take Viagra?
While Viagra is generally safe to use, you need to avoid taking it if you’re planning to drive or use dangerous machinery. Also, you should not take Viagra if you’ve had a heart attack, stroke, or any type of severe cardiovascular incident.
If you experience these types of events while on Viagra, discontinue use immediately and contact your doctor. These events are usually caused by a low blood pressure condition called ‘hypotension’. In rare cases, it can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. You can also experience dizziness, headache, or fainting while on Viagra.
Your doctor may also recommend that you take a break from taking Viagra if you’re a frequent user or if it’s been a while since you’ve taken it. Being on a medication chronically requires that you occasionally take a break from it, in order to prevent a low blood pressure condition called ‘edema’. Take the breaks as prescribed and contact your doctor if you experience any adverse effects.
Consult with your doctor about whether or not Viagra is right for you. Everyone’s body chemistry is a little bit different, so they may respond differently to the medication. Your doctor can best determine what will work best for you.
ED is a widespread problem, affecting more than half of all men at some time in their life. If you’re not sure what type of medication would work best for you, discuss this with your doctor. Together, you can choose the best treatment option for you.