The most popular pharmaceutical among men is certainly Viagra. Whether you’ve heard of erectile dysfunction (ED) or not, you’re certainly sure to have seen or heard of Viagra, simply because it can help millions of men improve their sex lives. But what is it exactly that makes Viagra so popular and what other medications are there to treat ED? Let’s take a quick look, shall we?
What Is ED And What Are Its Consequences?
ED, also known as erectile malfunction, is the inability of a man to achieve or maintain an erection that’s sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. If you or a loved one is suffering from ED and are looking for a remedy, then you’ve come to the right place. We’ll discuss the various types of ED and how Viagra may help treat it.
Common Types of ED
ED is quite common and can affect anyone, regardless of age. It can arise from a variety of causes, but the most frequent ones are medical conditions or medications. It’s important to note that not all men with ED will benefit from Viagra or other similar medications. That’s why it’s always important to consult with a physician when seeking treatment for ED. Here are some of the most common types of ED and their treatments:
- Psychological ED: This type of ED can be caused by stress, anxiety, or other psychological factors. It may also be a symptom of a larger mental health issue that needs to be evaluated by a professional.
- Neurological ED: This type of ED can be caused by a lesion or disease in the brain that inhibits the ability to achieve or maintain an erection. In these cases, treatment may require medication or neurosurgery.
- Cardiac ED: This type of ED can be caused by issues with the heart or by medications used to treat heart conditions. It may also be a consequence of arterial sclerosis or damage from diabetes mellitus. Treatment for this type of ED will depend on the underlying cause.
- Endocrinological ED: This type of ED can be caused by disorders that arise from issues with the endocrine system, which is the body’s hormone production and regulation system. Examples of endocrine disorders that can cause ED include hyperthyroidism and hyperprolactinemia. Treatment for this type of ED will depend on the underlying cause.
- Somatic ED: This type of ED can be caused by problems with the body’s somatic (meaning physical) functions. Examples of somatic disorders that can cause ED include Peyronie’s disease and hypogonadism. Treatment for this type of ED will depend on the underlying cause.
- Other Specific Types of ED: There are numerous other specific types of ED that are much less common that the ones mentioned above. Some of these other types of ED have unique names and are caused by either an underlying psychiatric condition or by a specific medical condition, such as liver cirrhosis or chronic renal failure. In these cases, treatment for ED will depend on the underlying cause.
How Does Viagra Work?
Viagra works by increasing blood flow to the penis and helping to relax the muscles associated with the bladder and the bowel. This allows for greater intercourse depth and also reduces the likelihood of experiencing unpleasant accidents (e.g., bladder control issues or bowel blockages). In other words, Viagra improves the overall quality of sexual performance. It does this by improving the ability of the user to maintain an erection and reducing the associated discomfort. Not surprisingly, then, Viagra is often referred to as a “mighty little pill” due to its small size and potent effects.
Is There A Recommended Dosage For Viagra?
Not really. Typically, the recommended starting dose of Viagra is one tablet (or approximately one-quarter of a pill) before bedtime, with additional tablets (or pills) being taken as needed throughout the day. The exact same dosage regimen applies to the generic form of Viagra (i.e., sildenafil citrate), so if you’re already taking that, then there’s no need to change a thing. As with all medications, though, it’s important to listen to your body and note how it reacts to the medication. If you notice that the medication is having an adverse effect on your daily life, then you should consider adjusting the dosage or seeking help from a doctor to find the right balance. Remember: It’s always best to consult with a physician before making any major changes to your medication regimen.
Is Viagra Safe To Take With Other Medications?
Yes, Viagra is generally safe to take with other medications. However, you should consult with a physician before doing so. Taking certain medications with Viagra can change the way that the two agents interact, potentially causing adverse effects. Some common medications that you should avoid taking with Viagra include:
- Cyclosporine
- Diltizem
- Ergonovine
- Fenproporex
- Fenfluramine
- Fesoterodine
- Fluoxetine
- Methotrexate
- Novolog
- Rasagiline
What Other Medications Are There To Treat ED?
There are several other medications and natural remedies that can be used to treat ED. Some of the more popular ones are listed below. Be sure to consult with a physician to find the right treatment for your specific needs.
- Sildenafil (Viagra)
- Tadalafil (Cialis)
- Vardenafil (Levitra)
- Brahmi flower extract
- Ginkgo biloba extract
- Grapefruit
- Chamomile flower extract
- L-Arginine
- Yohimbine
- Herbal Viagra (erectile dysfunction remedy)
- Milk Thistle
As you can see, there are several different types of ED, each with varying causes and different treatments. Viagra works for most men who try it and can quickly become a part of your regimen. Remember: If you’re not having any success with the recommended starting dose, then try increasing the dosage or changing the form (i.e., tablet vs. liquid). You may also need to try different medications or therapies to find the right combination for you.