Most of us have heard of Viagra, especially since its ads appear frequently on television. But how much will it really cost you? How does the drug and its various forms work? Is it safe to take?
Let’s try to answer these questions and more as we explore the basics of Viagra and its various forms.
What Is Viagra?
Viagra is short for “vardenafil”, which is a type of medication that improves the ability of a man’s erectile tissue to produce an erectile response to sexual stimulation.
According to the Viagra website, “Erectile dysfunction is the inability of the penis to become fully erect. It is a common problem among both men and women. However, it is often more noticeable in men and can be a major cause of anxiety and depression in this group.”
Because Viagra is a drug, it cannot be considered “alternative” medicine, and it is strictly regulated by the FDA. It is available only by prescription and, in most cases, will be combined with other medications, such as sildenafil (Revatio) or tadalafil (Cialis).
What Forms Does Viagra Come In?
Viagra is usually given as a tablet or a powder to be dissolved in water before use. It can also be used as a gel that is applied directly to the penis before sexual activity. The tablet and gel forms are currently the only ones approved by the FDA for use in the United States. However, the powder form is also available in some countries outside America, such as Canada and the United Kingdom.
Viagra’s active ingredient, vardenafil, is only available in certain forms. Some clinics and physicians will only give it to patients in those forms as well. Make sure you know what those forms are before you start a prescription.
How Effective Is Viagra?
According to the FDA, the medication is “highly effective” in treating erectile dysfunction. In a recent study, 94% of men who took vardenafil were able to achieve an erection adequate for sexual penetration, while only 18% of men who took a placebo were able to achieve an erection of similar quality.
The study’s authors concluded that “vardenafil holds great promise as a safe and effective treatment for erectile dysfunction.” However, in keeping with its legal status as a drug, the study also suggests that “clinicians should educate their patients about the potential risks associated with the use of any medication for erectile dysfunction.”
Is It Safe To Take Viagra?
Yes, taking Viagra is extremely safe, as the drug is approved by the FDA for use in humans. However, just because it is safe does not mean that it is without risks. In rare cases, men have experienced a “serotonin syndrome” when taking the medication, which is a potentially fatal condition caused by excessive levels of serotonin in the body.
This condition occurs when two or more different medications are used together, either by mistake or due to some medical condition, such as anxiety or depression. To avoid this problem, doctors generally recommend avoiding medications that increase serotonin levels in the body and instead opting for treatments, such as psychotherapy or anti-anxiety medications, that decrease it.
How Long Does It Take For Viagra To Work?
The speed at which Viagra works is not fully understood but is believed to depend on a number of factors, including the strength of the dose and the condition of the patient’s erectile tissue. In general, it takes several minutes for the medication to take effect and about 30 minutes for the full benefits to be realized.
Some men have reported having problems achieving an erection even after taking the medication, which would indicate that it took longer than expected for the drug to take effect. This is why it is always a good idea to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until the desired effect is reached.
How Long Does It Last?
Unfortunately, the duration of Viagra’s effects is not known. Many men experience some improvement in erectile function with each use but the effect gradually wears off over time, so it is best to take it as often as needed.
While the drug does not appear to have any long-term negative effects, it is always a good idea to discuss with your doctor the possibility of adjusting the dose and lifestyle factors that could extend its effective lifespan.
What Are The Side Effects Of Viagra?
The most common side effect associated with Viagra is upset stomach, which can be alleviated by taking the medication in combination with food. In general, men experience much less severe side effects than women do because the drug is primarily prescribed for problems that men face more frequently than women, such as erectile dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension, as mentioned previously. However, just because the drug is “safe” does not mean that it is without risks. In rare cases, men have experienced a “serotonin syndrome” when taking the medication, which is a potentially fatal condition caused by excessive levels of serotonin in the body. In most cases, this occurs when two or more medications are used together but, in rare instances, it has also been known to occur simply because a man has taken too much Viagra. In any case, if you experience any unusual symptoms, such as sudden mood changes or behavior issues, you should consult your doctor immediately as this could indicate a problem.