For decades, Viagra has been the gold standard when it comes to treating sexual problems in men. The popularity of the drug derives from its ability to enhance pleasure and satisfaction in those who use it, and its ability to combat erectile dysfunction in those who take it. But what exactly is Viagra? Is it an invention from the ’70s, as its packaging would have you believe? Or is it a medication that has been around for much longer? Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane and revisit some of the most important medical advancements of the 20th century. You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of not only Viagra, but all past and present medications used in the treatment of sexual problems.
Progesterone
Progesterone is one of the most important hormones for women. It’s vital in regulating their monthly cycle, acting as an anti-inflammatory agent in the body and boosting their libido. If you’re unfamiliar, the menstrual cycle occurs when a woman’s ovaries release an egg each month. This egg is then picked up by the uterus and combined with sperm to form a fertilized embryo. During this time, the levels of progesterone increase, resulting in what’s known as the premenstrual phase. In this phase, women are more likely to experience irritability, bloating, cramping and depression, for which progesterone is largely blamed. In the latter half of the premenstrual phase, the progesterone levels begin to decline, resulting in a lessening of the aforementioned symptoms. By the time a women gets to the latter part of the cycle, the hormone levels have dropped significantly, making way for the menstrual phase. After giving birth, progesterone is still present in a woman’s body, however, its levels are at their lowest during the postpartum period. This is why it’s important to note that progesterone comes with a set time period during which it needs to be taken. Many doctors and scientists have suggested that if a women wants to optimize their benefits from the hormone, they should take it at the same time every day. This can be a challenge, especially if you have children who need help with their napping routines. For this reason, a progesterone ring can be an ideal solution. Its placement is dependant on how long it’s been since your last period. If you’ve had a long gap since your last period, then you’ll need to choose an implantable progesterone device. The benefits of this approach include lessening PMS-related symptoms and optimizing the therapeutic effects of the hormone. For a more in-depth guide to progesterone therapy, be sure to check out our informative guide here.
Sildenafil Citrate (Viagra)
If you’re unfamiliar, erectile dysfunction is the inability to achieve or maintain an erection that is sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. It’s a common problem, affecting as many as 16 million men in the US alone. If you’re aged 40 and above, you’re already at an increased risk of developing the condition. That’s because as men get older, the ability to achieve or maintain an erection usually disappears. This makes it more difficult for the afflicted to participate in a sexual activity that they enjoy. It’s no surprise then that so many men turn to medications like Viagra to help them in this regard. One of the most popular erectile dysfunction drugs, Viagra is a sildenafil citrate. Its active component works by inhibiting phosphodiesterase 5, the enzyme responsible for breaking down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) in the body. This in turn enhances nitric oxide synthesis, causing vasodilation and smooth muscle relaxation, leading to better blood flow to the corpora cavernosa, the two spongy erectile tissue chambers in the penis. As a result, more men are able to get an erection, maintain it for longer and achieve deeper penetration during sex. If you’re interested in trying Viagra, be sure to consult with your physician or healthcare provider. They will be able to advise you as to the best approach for your particular situation.
Methyltestosterone
Many men with low testosterone levels also have low sex drive or libido. There are several possible reasons for this including the aforementioned erectile dysfunction and general hormonal decline, brought on by aging. One of the more popular solutions is methyltestosterone. Also known as Methandrostenolone, MT is an androgenic steroid, which enhances sexual function in men. It increases libido and suppresses the human growth hormone, which in turn lowers serum cholesterol levels and promotes bony growth, which is valuable for those who are considering MT as a possible solution. However, it’s not an ideal choice for women. While it may raise their testosterone levels, it also causes them to have more potent sexual drives and an increased risk of breast cancer. For this reason, it’s best taken in combination with a prostate cancer drug, which suppresses the growth of prostate cancer cells, but also has beneficial effects on sexual function and drive. If you’re interested in trying Methyltestosterone, be sure to consult with your physician or healthcare provider. They will be able to advise you as to the best approach for your particular situation.
Combination Therapy
If you’re not keen on trying a single medication for improving your sexual function, then you may want to explore a combination therapy. In cases like this, two or more medications are typically administered together. The first drug is usually a PDE5 inhibitor, which as we explained above, helps to enhance blood flow to the penis, resulting in an erection. If you want to try this combination therapy, then you need to make sure that the drugs are approved by the FDA for that purpose. As an example, the combination of tadalafil (Cialis) and vardenafil (Levitra) is FDA approved for treating erectile dysfunction. However, there are several possible downsides to this approach. The first is that the medications may interact with each other, nullifying some of their effects. The second is that if you’re taking more than one drug, then you have the risk of developing drug interactions. As always, safety and efficacy must be considered, along with the particular situation of the patient. If you’re interested in trying a combination therapy, then be sure to consult with your physician or healthcare provider. They will be able to advise you as to the best approach for your particular situation.
Clomiphene
Another solution for men with low testosterone levels is Clomiphene. Also known as Clomid, this is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). Administered orally, it directly attacks the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that controls the pituitary gland, which in turn controls the release of hormones, including testosterone, throughout the body. In men and women, oral clomiphene can help to prevent ovarian cancer. However, it also has several other potential uses, including boosting sperm production in men undergoing infertility treatment. If you’re interested in trying Clomiphene, then be sure to consult with your physician or healthcare provider. They will be able to advise you as to the best approach for your particular situation.
Tranquil Turmeric
One more non-prescription treatment option for men with erectile dysfunction is turmeric. Also known as curcumin, this natural substance is found in curry powder and possesses powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Not only does it reduce the severity of premenstrual syndrome, but it also helps to combat the condition altogether. While it won’t give you a fully erect penis (at least not on its own), it may help to improve your sex life. For this reason, many men with ED use turmeric either in combination with or prior to other medications. If you’re interested in trying turmeric, then be sure to consult with your physician or healthcare provider. They will be able to advise you as to the best approach for your particular situation.
The list of medications used to treat erectile dysfunction is long and varied. From progesterone to clomiphene to sildenafil citrate, these medications have been shown to improve the quality of life for many men struggling with the condition. However, if you’re not keen on trying a single medication, then combination and hybrid therapies are available, which combine two or more of the previously mentioned medications to create an effective treatment regimen. If you’re interested in trying a combination therapy, then be sure to consult with your physician or healthcare provider. They will be able to advise you as to the best approach for your particular situation.