What Is It?
Generic Viagra® (sildenafil citrate) is a drug developed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (better known as impotence).
Viagra® is a registered trademark of Pfizer Inc.
Brand Viagra® is manufactured by Pfizer Inc and is available in doses of 75mg, 50mg, and 25mg. What this means is that you may find that one dose of Brand Viagra® is equivalent to three doses of Generic Viagra®.
If you’re not aware of how Viagra® works, then it’s time you should be. Here’s a short tutorial on how to use Viagra®.
How Does It Work?
The active compound in Viagra® is sildenafil citrate which stimulates blood vessels in the penis. When blood is delivered to the penis, it encourages the tunica albuginea to relax, allowing easier penetration into the vagina.
Penile erection is typically accompanied by increased blood flow into the organ and, therefore, increased volume. When this happens, the penis becomes longer and thicker, and it may even gain a slight curve. In rare cases, an erection may persist for hours, even days. This is know as extreme arousal or prolonged erections. It’s important to note that not all penile erections are the same. They differ based on factors such as intensity and duration. Just because your doctor has told you that you’re clinically depressed and need to be on medication, that doesn’t mean that all penile erections are a symptom of your depression. Take your medication as recommended and consult your doctor if the penile erections continue to be a problem.
When Should You Take It?
Just like with many other medicines, the recommended dosage of Viagra® varies by patient. However, the average recommended dose is 25mg three times a day, or 50mg two times a day for severe erectile dysfunction. If you’re not sure what dosage is right for you, then consult your doctor or pharmacist. Some people may also require a lower dose, while others may need a higher dose. Your doctor will have to determine this for you.
How Long Does It Work?
The effects of Viagra® last about an hour after ingestion. While the medication is active in your blood, it may take up to 4 hours for it to reach its full potency. This is why it’s important to take it at the same time each day regardless of whether you intend to engage in sexual activity or not.
If you forget to take your medication at the correct time, then you may experience decreased effects or possibly no effects at all. Letting your medication time lapse also has negative consequences. If you’re planning on having sex within the next hour, then taking your medication less than 30 minutes beforehand may cause inconsistent results due to the medication’s reduced potency. Wait until at least 30 minutes before engaging in any sexual activity. This will ensure that the medication will be at its peak level and give you the best chance of having satisfactory sexual experiences.
Additional Info
In addition to treating erectile dysfunction, Viagra® is also used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and symptoms of nerve damage (e.g., nerve pain, numbness, or tingling).
The most prevalent side effects associated with Viagra® are headache, nausea, diarrhea, flushing, and stomach cramps. Although these are relatively common, they’re usually mild and acceptable. Severe allergic reactions are rare but may occur.
Because it’s highly effective and has few side effects, many people with erectile dysfunction are turning to online pharmacies to buy Viagra®. Since you have to take the medication 3 times a day, it’s best to take it at the same time each day. For instance, if you’re supposed to take it at 8 a.m., then you should do so precisely at that time to ensure maximum effectiveness. Some people report that taking Viagra® at the same time each day helps to improve their overall well-being. It also helps to maintain a healthy sex life, which is important for men as they get older.
One of the biggest challenges for individuals struggling with erectile dysfunction is trying to figure out which treatment is best for them. Whether you decide to go the medical route or try DIYing an herbal remedy, learning how to treat your impotence may take some time. Fortunately, the above information about Viagra® should provide you with the basics about how to use the medication and what to expect. From here, you can research further and figure out which method is best suited to your needs.