The year 2021 is already halfway gone, and we’re looking back on it with a lot of gratitude. Not only did this year bring great changes for the better, but it also provided us with some amazing new medicines, tools, and devices that made our work as veterinarians a lot more convenient and enjoyable. One of the most positive changes that happened in 2021 is the approval of several new erectile dysfunction (ED) medications by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). We can’t say this enough: Thank you, FDA!
Now, however, that the new medication era has begun, it’s time to ask the most fundamental question: What is the best medication for your money? And in this article, we’re going to teach you about the best alternatives for viagra, as well as the ones that could potentially replace it.
What Is Viagra?
Viagra (the chemical name is sildenafil) is a medication that was originally approved by the FDA in 1998 and is marketed as a treatment for ED. Viagra is one of the most popular ED medications in the world, and thanks in part to its success, other pharmaceutical companies continue to develop similar medications.
So what is ED, and what does Viagra do?
ED, also known as impotence, is the inability of a male to sustain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. Fortunately for men, ED is a very treatable condition, and with the right treatment, most people can enjoy healthy and happy sex lives. In fact, ED is so common that there’s an entire section of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) specifically dedicated to it. (You can read more about ED here.)
The good news is there are several different treatments for ED, and with the right treatment plan, many men with ED can enjoy improved sexual function and performance. (Check out the Medicines for ED section for more information on ED treatments).
Now, back to Viagra. As we mentioned above, Viagra is one of the most popular ED medications in the world, and for good reason. When used appropriately, Viagra can be a safe and effective treatment for ED, and it’s also one of the least expensive medications available. Here are some of the key facts about Viagra that you should know:
How Does It Work?
As mentioned above, Viagra is a medication that was originally approved by the FDA in 1998. When used appropriately, it can be a safe and effective treatment for ED. (The drug has also been shown to be useful for pulmonary hypertension and for promoting penile erection in the context of psychotherapy).
The way that Viagra works is by inhibiting the action of an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), which is responsible for breaking down a neurotransmitter called cGMP (cyclic guanosine monophosphate). As a result of this enzymatic action, the relaxation of the blood vessels in the penis occurs, leading to an erection. (Learn more here).
Where Can I Buy Viagra?
Viagra (and similar medications) can be purchased at most drugstores, but it’s best to consult with your veterinarian or a local pet store to ensure you’re getting the best price possible. Otherwise, you could end up paying more for the medication than it’s actually worth.
What Forms Does It Come In?
As mentioned above, Viagra is available in a variety of forms, including tablets, liquids, and gels. However, the best and most popular form of the medication is known as Sildenafil Citrate, which is a citrate ester of Sildenafil. (This is to ensure that the medication is well absorbed by the body).
When Should I Take It?
Viagra should be taken at least 30 minutes before sexual activity and no more than 3 hours afterwards. It should also be noted that the medication can cause some men to become sexually aroused more quickly than usual. If this is a concern, then one can also take a dose of Viagra 15 minutes before sexual activity and another 15 minutes afterwards.
What About Side Effects?
As with any medication, there are always side effects associated with Viagra. However, these side effects are generally minor and only occur in a small fraction of individuals. The side effects of Viagra include headaches, flushing, and stuffiness. (Read more here).
Who Should Avoid It?
It’s important to note that while generally safe and effective, Viagra should not be taken by men with certain medical conditions. Those who should avoid it include those with bleeding disorders (such as hemophilia), kidney disease, and those who are on drugs for HIV or AIDS. In addition, it’s best to avoid using Viagra if you have suffered a recent heart attack or stroke.
When Is It Bad Times To Take It?
Like any medication, there are times when it’s recommended that you avoid taking Viagra. These include:
- If you’ve recently eaten a heavy meal, then it might cause an initial spike in blood glucose levels, leading to a diabetic reaction. Diabetics should therefore avoid this drug.
- If you’re going to be driving or operating heavy machinery, then it’s best to avoid taking the drug as it can cause headaches, dizziness, and in some cases, impairment. (This is also sometimes referred to as a drug-driving offence).
- For some people, taking nitric oxide (NO) boosters alongside drugs like Viagra can cause toxic effects. Therefore, if you’re taking any supplements, then it’s best to consult with your veterinarian about which drug combination would be suitable for your pet.
- If you’ve just undergone surgery, then it’s best to wait at least 2 weeks before taking any kind of erectile dysfunction medication. This is because drugs like Viagra can cause blood pressure to spike, leading to dizziness, confusion, and in rare cases, even death. (This is also sometimes referred to as a post-op scare).
- If you take nitroglycerin (NTG) medications for heart disease (an important reminder: These medications can be dangerous), then avoid mixing them with other medications that raise blood pressure, such as Viagra. The same goes for medications called alpha blockers, which are designed to relax muscles in the blood vessels, as these medications can also prevent NTG from doing its job and potentially leading to a serious medical condition.
Overall, Viagra is a safe and effective medication that has been shown in clinical trials to help men with ED. Additionally, it’s one of the least expensive medications in the world, which makes it attractive from a financial perspective. If you’re looking for a medication to treat your ED, then you might consider trying out Viagra, as it could potentially be a step toward restored sexual health.