You can’t make a mistake with a name like Viagra.
It’s one of the most popular and successful drugs in existence. You’ve probably heard of it. If not, it probably means you haven’t spent much time on the internet. Or, it could simply mean you’re one of the many, many people who don’t need to be asked about Viagra.
Let’s dive into what exactly Viagra is and how it works.
What Is Viagra?
Viagra is the brand name for sildenafil citrate, which is a drug commonly known as a phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor. It was approved for sale by the FDA in January 1998 and is currently available in a number of forms, including tablets, capsules, and gels. It’s also one of the most popularly-discussed topics on TikTok, with users reporting some extremely positive experiences with the drug.
Viagra works by increasing the blood flow to certain parts of the body, primarily the genitals, which results in increased pleasurable sensations and increased sexual desire. It does this by specifically targeting areas of the brain called the prefrontal cortex and the corpus cavernosum, two major components of the penis that play a key role in generating and maintaining an erection. Take a few moments to read about the science behind Viagra.
How Does It Work?
Sildenafil citrate works in a similar way to other medications known as PDE5 inhibitors, which include sildenafil and tadalafil. These medications augment the flow of blood to the penis, thus enhancing the effects of sexual stimulation on the brain. This effect is what gives these medications their name (‘sildenafil’ is short for’sydneyafil’).
By inhibiting the action of PDE5 in the corpus cavernosum, sildenafil citrate helps to maintain an erection by preventing the relaxation of muscles in this part of the penis. As a result, blood vessels in the corpus cavernosum remain constricted, helping to keep the organ rigid and enlarged during sexual stimulation. The increase in blood flow to the shaft of the penis, the glans, and the surrounding area also has the effect of causing the glans to become engorged with blood. This, in turn, has the effect of making the penis appear larger and more erect.
How Effective Is It?
According to published studies, sildenafil citrate is clinically proven to be highly effective in treating male erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence. A number of randomized, controlled trials have demonstrated that sildenafil citrate is roughly 75% more effective than placebo in treating the condition, with response rates above 90% reported in some studies.
In addition to impotence, sildenafil citrate is also proven to be effective in treating pulmonary arterial hypertension, post-menopausal women with hot flashes, and spinal cord injury-related erectile dysfunction. While some reports suggest that the medication is somewhat less effective in treating premature ejaculation, it is still considered to be a very effective therapy for this condition as well.
Where Can I Buy Viagra?
If you’re interested in trying out sildenafil citrate, it’s important to check the laws in your area because the medication is not available for purchase without a prescription. For that reason, you can’t just go to your local drugstore and buy a bottle. You’ll have to visit a pharmacy or seek out counsel from a doctor, as necessary.
However, even with a prescription, it can be difficult to get your hands on sildenafil citrate. In response, a number of online pharmacies have popped up in recent years and offer the medication at highly-competitive prices. Sometimes, these pharmacies will even ship the medication directly to your home. Keep in mind though that the medication is still prescription-only, and you’ll need a valid prescription to make a purchase.
Aside from prescription-only medications, there are a number of online pharmacies which also offer over-the-counter medications, including Viagra. In most cases, you’ll need to make a purchase of a 50mg tablet, which is a standard dose for the drug. In addition to offering a wide range of prescription and OTC medications, many online pharmacy companies also offer a money-back guarantee if you meet the right conditions. In the event that you don’t meet these conditions, you’ll be charged for the medication but will still receive a full refund, less shipping and handling fees, of course.
Side Effects And Warnings
While Viagra is generally considered to be a safe and effective medication, it’s still not without its risks. Like most prescription medication, it’s certainly not without side effects. The most common side effect is nausea, which can be problematic if you’re taking the medication along with food or drink. It can also cause dizziness, hypotension (low blood pressure), and headaches.
In addition to these potential side effects, Viagra is also known to interact with certain medications and foods, with which it has been documented to interact or cause problems. It’s strongly advised that you consult your physician or pharmacist before taking any medication or dietary supplement, especially if you’re already taking or plan to start taking prescription medication or have a history of high blood pressure, heart disease, low blood pressure, or strokes.
For those who are worried about possible side effects, there is also the option to try a natural alternative. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine compared the side effects of a 150mg oral dose of sildenafil citrate to those of a placebo and found that while both groups experienced some sort of side effect, the placebo group exhibited a significantly higher incidence of those side effects.
Overdose And Toxicity
Because the adverse effects of sildenafil citrate are generally mild and infrequent, there is little to no risk of overdose or toxicity. However, just like with any other medication, there is also the risk of an adverse reaction if you overdose or take the medication improperly. In the event of an overdose, your physician or health care provider will how you can safely bring down your dose of sildenafil citrate and monitor you for any signs of adverse effects.
Sildenafil citrate is not intended to be used by anyone other than adults and patients seeking treatment for sexual dysfunction. It is only available in certified pharmacies and specialty stores which have a licensed pharmacist on staff, and it is still highly-recommended that you consult with your physician before taking the medication.
When Does It Work Best?
Sildenafil citrate is best taken orally, either on an empty stomach or with food which contains fats. In addition to this, it has been proven that the medication works best when taken at a time as close to the time of day as possible, with some studies suggesting that it may be more effective when taken in the morning. However, the exact time of day when sildenafil citrate is most effective may vary from person to person, so you may need to try a few different times to find the one that works best for you.
Who Should Avoid It?
Anyone who is allergic to or suffers from liver problems may have problems taking sildenafil citrate. Your physician or pharmacist will be able to advise you on whether or not you’re able to take the medication based on your medical history. People who are taking nitrates, or those who have taken nitrates within the last 24 hours, should also avoid sildenafil citrate as it may cause a potentially fatal reaction known as nitrate toxicity. Your physician or pharmacist will advise you of whether or not you’re able to take this medication based on your medical history.
If you have any questions regarding this article, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always available to help, no matter what time it is.