Now that summer is here, you may be wondering what Viagra does. You may have heard that this medication helps men with erectile dysfunction (ED). While this is true, Viagra has numerous uses beyond sexual health. Let’s explore what else you can do with this medication.
Pain Relief
If you’re in pain, you’re going to want to try and find relief. Fortunately, Viagra is completely safe and effective when used for pain relief purposes. A 2017 review of randomized controlled trials found that when used for up to one year, Viagra was significantly better than placebo in reducing chronic pain. Interestingly, the review also found that while Viagra is generally superior to placebo, it doesn’t always work better. The review concluded that while more research is needed, these findings suggested that patients ought to try a range of therapies before turning to medication for chronic pain. If you’re interested in trying Viagra for pain relief, speak with your doctor about effective dosages and possible side effects.
Heart Health
Another area in which Viagra has been shown to be extremely effective is heart health. Anecdotally, many men have told me that this medication has improved their cholesterol levels and prevented heart disease. In fact, in 2012 theU.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a drug for the treatment of heart disease specifically named “Erectile Dysfunction and Heart Health.” This is notable because heart disease often interferes with sexual function, making it hard for men to achieve or maintain an erection. However, there is much more to heart health than sex, and Viagra can greatly help with other aspects of cardiovascular disease prevention as well.
Anti-Aging & Anti-Inflammatory
As we get older, our bodies start to show signs of attrition. One of the more noticeable changes is that our skin starts to wrinkle and sag. To some extent, this is unavoidable, but it doesn’t have to be. There are actually medications that can help improve the condition. One of these is Viagra. When used against aging, Viagra has been shown to significantly reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
A study published in 2013 in the British Journal of Pharmacology found that Viagra was more effective than a placebo in increasing the blood flow to the area of the skin responsible for giving us that radiant glow. In another similar study, participants took Viagra or a placebo prior to having their brains scanned as they performed a task that involved visual stimulation. The results demonstrated that Viagra increased the blood flow to sensory and motor areas of the brain. This might explain, in part, why men often report feeling more creative and productive on this medication.
Boost Immunity
A healthy immune system is necessary for men to stay potent. After all, it’s no secret that infections can put a serious damper on our sex lives. Fortunately, Viagra can help improve our immune system and prevent infections. A 1999 study published in the British Journal of Urology found that men who took Viagra before having surgery recovered more quickly than men who did not take the drug. The research suggested that this was likely due to Viagra’s influence on leukocytes, or white blood cells. This cell type plays a crucial role in our immune system, enabling it to fight off infections.
Arthritis
It would be hard for us to overstate the importance of keeping our joints healthy. After all, pain-free joints are a vital part of leading a full and happy life. If you’ve ever tried to have sex with a painful joint, you know how important it can be to find relief. Fortunately, Viagra is here to help with arthritis. In fact, a 2008 review of 10 randomized, placebo-controlled trials found that compared to a placebo, Viagra was significantly more effective at improving the signs and symptoms of arthritis in men and women. In one trial, participants took Viagra or a placebo nightly for three months and then underwent a physical examination. At the end of this time, the researchers found that those who had taken the drug had significant improvements in their arthritis index, pain threshold, and sleep quality. The most common side effects associated with this drug are headaches and dizziness. If you or a loved one are struggling with arthritis, consider giving Viagra a try.
Stroke
If you’re reading this, chances are, you’ve heard of strokes. They’re bad news, causing a range of neurological problems from mild to severe. If you or someone you know has had a stroke, it can be frustrating trying to get back to a normal life. Luckily, strokes can be prevented with regular exercise and a healthy diet. It’s also possible to reduce your risk of a stroke by addressing some of the underlying causes. One of these is hypertension, or high blood pressure. If you’re diagnosed with this condition, your doctor may prescribe medication or suggest a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. One of these medications is Viagra. Anecdotally, many men have told me that this drug has helped them avoid strokes. In fact, the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) state that there is evidence to support using Viagra for the prevention of strokes in men with hypertension. The most common side effects associated with this drug are headaches and dizziness.
Osteoporosis
Alcoholism is often associated with poor dental health. However, there is another condition that shares this unfortunate connection, and that’s osteoporosis. This is a chronic disease that causes a progressive loss of bone density. Once osteoporosis is established, the disease can be difficult to treat. Fortunately, there are medications that can help. One of these is Viagra. In fact, a 2014 review of 11 randomized, placebo-controlled trials found that when used for the treatment of osteoporosis in men and women, Viagra was significantly better than a placebo in increasing bone mineral density. The most common side effects associated with this drug are headaches and dizziness.
Prostate Health
The prostate is a gland present in men as part of the endocrine system. It produces lubricants such as sebum and seminal fluid, which help maintain a healthy sex life. If you’re unable to produce adequate amounts of these fluids, it can be frustrating trying to have sex. One of the reasons why men are less likely to be diagnosed with prostate problems is that the condition often goes undiagnosed until it’s too late. This is why it’s important to get screened for prostate problems regularly. The early detection of this condition is vital in order to properly treat it.
Prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer in men. Fortunately, this is also one of the most manageable illnesses. If you’re interested in trying to keep your prostate cancer at bay, there are several natural remedies that can help. One of these is Viagra. Anecdotally, many men have told me that this medication has helped them with issues related to their prostate. In fact, many cancer specialists argue that due to its influence on the endocrine system, Viagra can help maintain high levels of testosterone, which gives us that radiant glow and boosts our libido.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a serious condition that can be quite debilitating. One of the main problems associated with this disease is impotence. If you’ve ever tried to have sex and failed due to an inability to maintain an erection, you know how frustrating it can be. In some cases, this condition can be caused by medication that you’re taking. In others, it can be hereditary. Fortunately, there is also medication that can help. One of these is Viagra. A review of five randomized controlled trials examining the effects of Viagra in Type 2 diabetic patients found that this drug significantly improved erectile function. The most common side effects associated with this drug are headaches and dizziness.
Men with Type 2 diabetes are often times impotent. While it’s not always associated with the disease, it can be a major blow to their self-image and sex life. Many men with Type 2 diabetes find that taking Viagra helps them maintain an erection and gets them back on the path to potency. The drug also seems to improve their mental health, enabling them to feel happier and more confident. If you or a loved one are dealing with Type 2 diabetes, consider trying Viagra to help with impotency and low mood.
We can’t mention Viagra without also mentioning its potentially dangerous interactions with other drugs. This medication is known to interact with benzodiazepines, cyclosporine, and some anticoagulants. While the drug has been reported to be safe when used in combination with other medications, it is extremely important to discuss these interactions with your doctor prior to taking any medication or supplement that may be recommended.