Since FDA approval in June 2014, Viagra has been a popular choice for men who want to enhance their lovemaking experience. Available in a variety of both traditional and novel varieties, the popular blue pill has been hailed as a ‘game-changer’ for busy men seeking quick relief from erectile dysfunction.
The drug works by enhancing blood flow to the penis, thus allowing for bigger and more intense erections. What’s more, recent studies have shown that Viagra may even help prevent sexual dysfunction in women. While scientists continue to study the effects of Viagra on women and relationships, it’s clear the drug has made an impact, especially in the bedroom.
If you’re interested in trying Viagra, here’s what you need to know.
How Effective is it?
The effectiveness of Viagra as a treatment for erectile dysfunction is largely dependent on several factors, including the kind of dysfunction you have, your dosage, and whether or not you take it with food. Even then, the drug can cause side effects in some people which is why it’s not advised for men with certain medical conditions (such as hypertension, diabetes, heart disease etc.), or who have taken nitrates in the past.
If you’re not sure how effective Viagra is in your case, ask your doctor for a consultation. He or she will be able to tell you whether or not the drug is right for you based on a number of factors, including your medical history.
How Long Does It Last?
While the effects of a single dose of Viagra are often significant, they tend to wear off fairly quickly, usually within half an hour. If you need to be able to get your ‘fix’ more than once a day, you should consider an extended-release formulation of the drug, as this will help to stabilize its effects and extend its duration of action.
Is It Safe?
The safety of a drug or medication is extremely important, especially if you’re taking it for the first time or if you’re concerned about possible side effects. Unfortunately, Viagra is not devoid of risks and side effects, and these vary from mild to severe, especially if you have diabetes or liver disease. If you do have concerns about the risks associated with Viagra, talk to your doctor about it first, so that he can assess your situation and put your mind at ease.
The most common side effect (occurring in up to 2% of people) is headache, while others have reported having nausea, dizziness, or insomnia. If you experience any serious side effects (such as priapism, a prolonged and painful erection, low blood pressure, or vision problems), seek medical help immediately.
How Much Does it Cost?
The cost of a standard dose of Viagra ranges between $30 and $60 a piece, depending on the pharmacy and your insurance company. Many people with private insurance policies are covered by health savings accounts, which means they can spend less than $20 per month on prescriptions.
If you’re looking for a long-term, low-cost option, you can purchase a three-pack of Viagra at significantly discounted prices from some online retailers.
What Forms do it Come in?
Although it’s mainly prescribed as a tablet, Viagra is also available in both liquid and capsule forms. If you plan on taking the drug, it’s important to keep in mind that the forms in which it’s been proven to be most effective are usually preferred; however, this is not always the case. For example, the liquid form is more appropriate for people with nerve damage or severe liver or kidney disease.
Does it Work for Women?
While Viagra has been shown to be an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction in men, it has also been proven to work for women, especially when taken at the same time as a pill or a shot of hormone therapy, as this helps to regulate blood flow to the penis. For this reason, many doctors and pharmacists are now recommending the drug as a solution for women with sexual dysfunction, particularly those experiencing low libido or difficulty in reaching climax.
If you’re a woman looking for ways to improve your sex life, you can start by talking to your doctor about what’s causing your sexual dysfunction and how Viagra might help. If you’re convinced the drug could be beneficial, he might suggest a trial treatment or a regularly-scheduled dose to see how it affects your sex life.
For those who do experience benefits from Viagra, let’s hope that this continues to be a safe and effective drug for people to rely on in the quest for better sex lives.