Sildenafil (Viagra) is the active ingredient in many prescription medications that treat erectile dysfunction (impotence) in men. It is a relatively young drug, having been approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1998, and since then has been used as a treatment for this condition. It is a relatively safe medication, but as with any drug, there can be side effects. Many of these side effects are related to allergies, and in rare cases, interactions with other medications or supplements can result in serious health problems. Women represent a significant portion of the Viagra population, as the medication is often prescribed for treatment of erectile dysfunction. However, like any medication, there are unique situations where it is not advisable for females to take Viagra, and in some cases, it can even be dangerous. As a woman who has taken the medication and wants to share her insights on the matter, let’s explore what happens if a woman takes Viagra.
Effect On Men
Like any medication, Viagra has the potential to produce distinct effects in different people. While it can be beneficial in some cases, it can also cause significant side effects in others. In general, the drug works by increasing blood flow to the penis, resulting in an erection that lasts for multiple hours. This medication is not for women who are trying to get pregnant, as it can affect the ability of the sperm to swim. In addition, as mentioned, the medication is not intended for use in women with heart disease, as it can potentiate the effects of the nitric oxide in the blood. Like any drug, there are occasional side effects that are slightly more common in people who take Viagra than those who do not. Some of these side effects include headache, flushing, and diarrhea. More serious effects include liver damage and high blood pressure. If you are taking Viagra, your doctor should be aware of your drug interaction history, especially if you are taking any medication for blood pressure or have a history of liver disease.
Risks To Women
As mentioned, women are a significant portion of the population that takes Viagra. The drug is used to treat erectile dysfunction in males, but there are some risks associated with the medication in women. The most significant risk to women is that of an overdose. This can occur if a woman takes more than the recommended dose or if the drug is taken in combination with alcohol. An overdose of Viagra in women can result in death, so obviously, this is not a risk to take lightly. In addition, if you are of childbearing age and are taking Viagra for fertility reasons, then you need to be aware of the risk of birth defects. It is believed that the medication can cause defects in the developing baby’s skull, vertebrae, and heart. As a result of these risks, women who are considering taking Viagra, or any other medication for that matter, should consult with their doctor or a reproductive specialist before starting treatment.
What Else Can Happen?
While Viagra is generally a safe and effective medication for men with erectile dysfunction, it is not without risks. In fact, there are a number of other potential side effects that may occur, particularly in women. Some of these side effects include headache, flushing, diarrhea, and liver damage. In some cases, the side effects can be quite serious, even resulting in death. As a result of these risks, it is not advisable for women to take Viagra, or any other medication for that matter, without consulting their doctor first.
For further information on Viagra and its risks, visit the FDA website at www.fda.gov and search for “Sildenafil (Viagra)” on the search bar. In addition to this website, you can contact the FDA directly at (800) 332-1041 or visit the agency’s web page for Erectile Dysfunction.