When it comes to our sexual wellness, most of us would agree that there are a variety of options available to consumers, from organic lotions to pharmaceuticals. One of the most popular, and certainly the most effective, is Viagra. Many men have turned to this drug to help them get through the night, focusing on its ability to increase bloodflow to the penis, resulting in an improved erection. While certainly a useful drug, what is known about Viagra suggests it may not be the most cost-effective solution for premature ejaculation or low sperm count that some men experience.
A Brief History Of Viagra
The first drug to bear the Viagra name was originally developed by Pfizer and introduced to the market in the late 1980s. Its development was based on a chemical substance called Sildenafil, which is derived from a plant native to the Indian subcontinent.
Viagra gained popularity as a safe and effective treatment for erectile dysfunction, particularly in men taking multiple drugs to treat their overall health. Now more than a decade later, Viagra remains one of the most popular drugs in the world, with annual sales of over $30 billion and more than 240 million prescriptions written worldwide in 2018.
Why Is Viagra Popular?
In today’s society, everyone is looking for ways to improve their sex life, whether they are married or in a long-term committed relationship, have an open marriage, or are simply content with their single status. For those who struggle with erectile dysfunction, Viagra is a drug that millions of men around the world count on to help them achieve satisfactory erections for the pleasure of their intimate partners. One thing that makes Viagra so attractive to men is the fact that it is a safe and legal treatment with few – if any – side effects. Some common ones include headaches, flushing, upset stomach, and stuffy nose. In a 2018 survey of 500 women conducted by CosmoCherrie, 77% of respondents said they would rather receive oral sex than have intercourse with an unresponsive partner, so even in instances where Viagra fails to provide satisfactory erections, it is likely that the act itself would be pleasurable for the woman involved.
How Much Does Viagra Cost?
While Viagra is a relatively inexpensive drug when compared to other pharmaceutical products, the cost of a single 150 mg dose without insurance coverage is around $14. This may seem like an expensive drug if you’re not used to paying out of pocket for medical treatments, but when you consider the potential benefits in terms of increased sexual pleasure and reduced dysfunction, the cost quickly becomes apparent. For those on limited budgets, purchasing the drug through a discount plan such as a workplace program or social healthcare plan can help to make the drug more affordable.
The Pros And Cons Of Viagra
The main advantage of Viagra is that it is a popular drug with many benefits. Men everywhere are turning to it to help them improve their sexual health. With so many men and women dependent on the drug, it is evident that there are some serious upsides to this product. The main disadvantage is that Viagra is a brand-name drug, which can raise the cost of health insurance for many people. Furthermore, since it is a prescription-only drug, many people might not be aware of the existence of this medication or what it does, which could lead to issues if a man tries to self-diagnose and treats himself with the drug without consulting a physician first.
Does Viagra Have Any Drawbacks?
As previously stated, since Viagra is a brand-name drug, it is more expensive than other comparable medications. In fact, the cost of a 150 mg bottle without insurance coverage is more than twice as expensive as a 30-day supply of Cialis, another popular ED drug and the cost of a single tablet is more than three times as expensive as a 30-day supply of Levitra, yet another popular ED drug. In addition to costing more, Viagra has a relatively short shelf-life, which could make it more difficult to obtain if you reside in a country where drug supplies are limited. Also, because it is a prescription-only drug, many people might not be aware of its existence or how it works, which could lead to adverse reactions if used improperly.
Practical Considerations
While Viagra has many benefits, it is not for everyone. A man should only use the drug if he’s aware that it could improve his sex life and if he is comfortable with the fact that it’s a prescription-only drug. If he doesn’t understand how or why it works, or if he’s afraid that it will alter his libido, then it might not be the best choice for him. In addition, men who’ve suffered from poor blood flow due to diabetes or heart disease may not respond well to Viagra and could face problems. Those with a history of stroke or Alzheimer’s disease and those taking blood thinners may also be at risk for hemorrhage or other adverse effects from the drug. Men with these conditions should consult with their physicians before taking Viagra. Finally, since Viagra may interact with other medications, including herbal supplements, men who are taking these should consult with their physicians and stop taking the drug if they are also starting a herbal treatment program.
Saving Tips
While Viagra is a safe and effective treatment for erectile dysfunction, those who are looking for ways to save money should consider purchasing the drug through a discount plan. Many pharmacy benefit managers (PBM), such as Coventry, Express Scripts, and OptumRx, offer savings plans for pharmaceuticals, including Viagra. If a man is eligible for a PBM plan, he can often qualify for discounts of up to 75% on the cost of his medication. This can make a considerable difference in terms of affordability and makes Viagra a more affordable option for those on a budget.
In some instances, insurance coverage can even pay for the entire cost of the drug, which would remove the need for a man to spend any of his own money. For additional information on this topic, men should consult with their physicians or a reputable pharmaceutical sales representative.