A lot of men around the world have found relief from ED (erectile dysfunction) and increased sex drive with the help of Viagra® (sildenafil). But what does it mean in Spanish? Let’s explore!
What Is Viagra?
Viagra is the generic form of the drug sildenafil (sildenafil citrate). First introduced to the market in 1994, Viagra is often referred to as the “male Viagra” because it helps improve erectile dysfunction in men. Additionally, studies have shown that men who took Viagra had improved sexual function and increased sexual desire. Although the drug was originally created to treat erectile dysfunction in men, it has since been found to be helpful for women with similar problems as well.
Where Does Viagra Come From?
Sildenafil is a chemical compound originally extracted from the seeds of the sexually-related plant, silphium. The compound was first synthesized in Germany in the 1960s and early experiments showed that it had powerful effects on inhibiting human platelet aggregation.
To this day, only synthetic versions of sildenafil are used in medical treatments. As a result, the majority of prescriptions for Viagra are written in Europe and the United States.
How Is Viagra Administered?
In men, Viagra is most commonly taken orally either 30 or 60 minutes before sexual activity. Taking the drug this way ensures that the maximum effects will be felt in relation to sexual arousal. Alternatively, the drug can be injected into the penis directly before sexual activity. Injection is another common administration method for Viagra, especially in men with low self-esteem. In rare cases, men have had an adverse reaction to oral Viagra, causing hives and other skin irritations. For this reason, it is always recommended that patients try oral medication first.
Is It Safe To Take Viagra On An Empty Stomach Or With Alcohol Consumption?
Taking Viagra without food can temporarily cause blurry vision. Additionally, researchers have suggested that stomach acid can potentially destroy the effects of the drug. This is why it is recommended that patients take the medicine on an empty stomach, or at least 3 hours before eating or drinking anything. The same goes for those who take the drug for the first time; it is advisable to avoid eating or drinking anything besides water while on the medication.
What Forms Does Viagra Come In?
Viagra can be found in both oral and non-oral forms, but it is usually given as a tablet or a liquid. In 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first sublingual tablet for men with ED. Known as Staxyn® (stear clear of eXtra), it is a medication that dissolves under the tongue and allows for easier absorption of the medication into the bloodstream. This new way of administering the drug could potentially allow for better effects and fewer side effects compared to the traditional oral route.
Luckily, Viagra is generally safe for use and the side effects are usually mild. The only serious side effects that have been reported from taking the drug are vision problems in people with glucose intolerance, and an allergic reaction in patients with a history of penicillin allergy. In very rare instances, men have had a serious reaction to Viagra including severe swelling, which required medical attention.
How Effective Is Viagra In Treating Erectile Dysfunction?
According to the U.S. National Institute of Health, approximately 14 million American men suffer from ED. And since Viagra was first introduced to the market in the early 2000s, the number of men taking the drug for the treatment of erectile dysfunction has increased by approximately 300%. In 2017, the U.S. FDA approved the use of Viagra in men with ED and low testosterone levels. This makes Viagra one of the most popular drugs for treating erectile dysfunction in men today.
While the exact mechanism behind Viagra’s success in treating erectile dysfunction is unknown, it is thought to work by increasing the amount of nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide is a chemical that helps maintain healthy erections. By helping the body produce more nitric oxide, it is believed that Viagra can help men with ED perform better in bed and experience more sustained erections.
In general, men who take Viagra for the treatment of ED experience more improved erections and increased sexual desire. And since the medication is usually taken orally, it is often times convenient and discreet for patients to take the drug in the presence of a partner.
What Are The Most Common Side Effects Of Viagra?
According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, the most common side effects of Viagra are headache, flushing, and dyspepsia (indigestion). In addition, common side effects include nasal congestion, dizziness, and upset stomach. The side effects usually go away after a few hours or days, but in some cases, symptoms can last for up to three days. It is also worth noting that some of these side effects are more common in patients who also take medicines for high blood pressure or heart disease. These patients should discuss the possible side effects of Viagra with their doctor prior to taking the medication.
Are There Any Other Sildenafil Drugs On The Market?
Yes, there are several other sildenafil-based medications on the market. DutraTock®, Revatio®, and Selphyl® are other examples of sildenafil-based erectile dysfunction medication. These are all available in both oral and injected forms. While these drugs can be effective in treating erectile dysfunction, they are usually more expensive than Viagra. Additionally, some patients have experienced adverse reactions or interactions with these drugs. However, because they are newer medications, more research is needed to determine the long-term effects of these treatments.
Even though Viagra is the most widely used sildenafil drug, it is far from the only option available to patients with erectile dysfunction. For this reason, it is always recommended that patients try several different treatments prior to taking a medication and choosing the one that provides the best balance between effectiveness and safety.
If you’re interested, here are a few links to learn more about some of the other sildenafil-based medications. We hope this article has helped you understand what Viagra means in Spanish and that you’re now equipped with the knowledge needed to ask any questions about the drug when you need it.