Viagra is one of the most popular and well-known branded drugs globally. Initially launched as a treatment for male erectile dysfunction (MORD), the sildenafil citrate drug is now widely used for a variety of conditions. Most notably, it is used to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension, chronic prostatitis, and benign prostatic hypertrophy. As a result of its popularity, side effects have been well-documented throughout its history. Despite this, many men continue to take the drug due to its efficacy and the lack of viable alternatives. Let’s take a closer look at the most common side effects of Viagra and whether or not they matter.
Headaches And Dizziness
Perhaps the most common side effect of Viagra is headaches and/or dizziness. The good news is that these are relatively minor side effects and are generally not dangerous. Some researchers have suggested that the headaches are related to elevated blood pressure caused by the drug. While other studies have disputed this, there is little doubt that the side effects are fairly common. In particular, older men are at an elevated risk of developing both headaches and dizziness. It is also possible that some people with pre-existing headaches or dizziness may experience an exacerbation of these symptoms while on the drug.
Dry Mouth
Another common side effect of Viagra is dry mouth. Like headaches and dizziness, dry mouth is another side effect that is largely harmless. However, just like headaches and dizziness, dry mouth is more common in individuals who take the drug for longer periods of time. While it is not life-threatening, it can certainly be bothersome. The cause of dry mouth is not well-understood. However, it is known that alcohol and certain medications can cause dry mouth. Perhaps the most significant risk factor for developing dry mouth is using tobacco products. Men who use tobacco are at a higher risk for developing the side effect. Unfortunately, there is no known way of preventing or treating dry mouth aside from abstaining from the use of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco.
Stinging Nitis
Another common side effect of Viagra is stinging nitis. Much like dry mouth, stinging nitis is another minor side effect that is largely harmless. However, just like dry mouth and headaches, stinging nitis can be a significant bother for some people. In rare cases, it is even life-threatening. The cause of stinging nitis is unknown, but it is suspected that it can be triggered by some foods, beverages, or environmental factors. There is no known way of preventing or treating stinging nitis. It is generally not worthwhile attempting to treat or prevent this condition on an individual basis. Instead, people with stinging nitis should simply be aware of the cause and not eat or drink anything that they are not accustomed to.
Blurred Vision
Another side effect of Viagra is blurred vision. Like other side effects mentioned thus far, blurred vision is a fairly minor side effect that is largely harmless. However, just like headaches and dizziness, blurred vision can be a significant bother for some people. The good news is that it is relatively easy to treat. While there is no known way of preventing or treating blurred vision other than avoiding the use of Viagra, many people with the condition simply need to get used to the symptoms. If you are experiencing blurred vision, it may be a good idea to consult your physician so that they can identify the cause of the problem.
Heart Attack
A very rare but sometimes serious side effect of Viagra is heart attack. Just like with other medications, there is a small chance that someone could have a heart attack while taking Viagra. In particular, it is possible for individuals with heart disease to have a heart attack while on the drug. The good news is that this is a very rare side effect and is generally only seen in people who are already experiencing heart problems. For this reason, people with heart disease who are taking Viagra should already be on medication for this condition, and it is generally not recommended that they stop taking it without first consulting their physician.
Nerve Damage
In extremely rare cases, someone has experienced a temporary loss of feeling or function in their extremities while on Viagra. This is called neurotoxicity. Just like with heart disease, individuals with neuropathy who take the drug may also experience a reduction in their physical abilities, especially when exercising. Just like with other medications, there is no known way of preventing or treating neurotoxicity. It is generally not recommended that people with neuropathy stop taking the drug without first consulting their practitioner.
Eyes Disorder
An extremely rare but also potentially serious side effect of Viagra is eyes disorder. Much like with other medications, someone can develop an eye condition while on Viagra. The good news is that this is also a very rare side effect and is generally only seen in people who are already experiencing an eye problem. Individuals with an eye disorder who take the drug may develop glaucoma, which is an often-fatal condition. This is one reason why it is recommended that people with an eye disorder do not take the drug without first consulting their physician. Other side effects of glaucoma that people with this condition may experience include blindness and teeth decay (dental caries).
Although Viagra is a relatively safe and efficacious drug, it still has some significant side effects. Anyone who is considering taking the drug for therapeutic reasons needs to be aware of this information. In particular, individuals who are already experiencing heart disease, diabetes, and/or high blood pressure should be aware of the possible adverse effects of the drug. Furthermore, as mentioned above, some men have reported headaches and/or dizziness, dry mouth, stinging nitis, blurred vision, heart attack, and/or nerve damage while on the drug. In these cases, the side effects were generally mild in nature and did not require medical treatment. However, it is still recommended that these individuals avoid foods and beverages that are high in alcohol and sugar as well as tobacco products.
As you can see, there are many risks associated with taking Viagra. However, these are all fairly minor risks that are generally not dangerous. Furthermore, just like with any other medication, there is no known way of preventing or treating these side effects on an individual basis. It is generally recommended that people with the above-mentioned risks seek medical help so that their health issues can be identified and treated. Once these issues are treated, it is generally not recommended that the person continue to take the drug. In these cases, the benefits of the drug often outweigh the risks, but only to a certain extent.
Are There Alternatives To Taking Viagra?
Although not a medication, foods and beverages can also affect erectile function. In particular, foods that are high in sugar and alcohol can cause erectile dysfunction. As mentioned above, some men have reported headaches and/or dizziness, dry mouth, stinging nitis, blurred vision, heart attack, and/or nerve damage while on Viagra. The problem with these foods is that they are often high in calories and can cause weight gain. For some people, this may be a significant issue. Just like with other medications and diseases, there is no known way of preventing or treating these side effects on an individual basis. Instead, people who experience them should simply be aware of the cause and not eat or drink anything that they are not accustomed to.
Dosage
The recommended dose for Viagra is one pill per day. However, this can vary greatly from person to person. Just like with other medications, individuals who are already experiencing heart disease, diabetes, and/or high blood pressure should begin with a low dosage and increase it slowly. Some people may also require a higher dosage to achieve the same effects as others. The good news is that this is a safe and effective medication, and there is no known way of overdose. Anyone who is considering taking the drug should do so only under the supervision of a physician.
Side Effects
While not as common as with other medications, there are still side effects associated with Viagra. These are fairly mild in nature and are generally not dangerous. Some of the most significant side effects include headache, dizziness, and/or dry mouth. Like other medications, individuals taking Viagra for the first time should begin with a low dosage and increase it slowly. In some cases, it may be necessary to gradually taper off the dosage or to take the drug intermittently rather than continuously. As with any medication, there is a possibility that someone could develop a medication allergy while taking the drug. In these cases, it is recommended that the individual discontinue use of the medication and consult their physician. Fortunately, this is a rare side effect and is generally not fatal.