You take a big pill, you feel a little woozy, and then you’re good to go. But is that all there is to it?
Sildenafil (the generic name for Viagra) is a medication commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence) in men. As a men’s health blogger and infrequently a attendee at sex toy parties, I get asked this question a lot. It’s always fascinating to hear the various ways people want to try the drug and the kinds of dosages they are thinking about trying.
How Does Sildenafil Work?
You may know that sildenafil inhibits phosphodiesterase (PDE) which is an enzyme that breaks down important chemicals called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) which, when elevated, lead to increased blood flow in the corpora cavernosa (the two spongy structures in the penis that get relaxed and thus able to filled with blood during an erection).
As phosphodiesterase is inhibited, cGMP levels rise, which in turn increase the blood flow in the corpora cavernosa and hence, the size of the erectile tissue (several clinical trials have shown that approximately 11.3 mg of sildenafil is needed to achieve an adequate erection).
What Forms Does Sildenafil Come In?
Sildenafil is available in both tablet and liquid forms. The former is considerably easier to take and ensures a quicker onset of action. The latter is more convenient if you’re driving or in a situation where you can’t take a tablet (like during an airplane ride).
What Would I Need to Consult About Before Trying Sildenafil?
Before starting any medication of importance, it’s always a good idea to consult your doctor or a pharmacist. Some people are sensitive to side effects caused by certain medications and might not be able to react well to changes in blood pressure or heart rate. Additionally, you might not be able to handle the medication well if you’ve never tried it before or if you have any kind of heart disease.
When Is The Right Time To Try Sildenafil?
In general, you should try to avoid dietary factors (such as alcohol) and certain lifestyle choices (like smoking) that could alter the effects of the medication. It’s also a good idea to start using the medication around the same time each day or as soon as possible after waking up.
Additionally, it’s important to note that the way you take the medication can have an effect on how it will interact with your body. As a general rule of thumb, a timed release tablet or gel form is suggested for optimal results.
How Long Does It Take For Sildenafil To Work?
Although the medication might induce an erection straight away, it will take some time for your body to adjust to the changes caused by sildenafil. In most cases, it takes about an hour for the full effects of the medication to be felt. During this time, you might notice that your erection is less severe than usual and last longer than with other medications used to treat erectile dysfunction. Moreover, the effect of sildenafil seems to increase with each successive dose, so it’s important to remember to follow the directions on your prescription carefully.
Is There Any Side Effects From Taking Sildenafil?
Although sildenafil is relatively safe when used as prescribed, it’s always a good idea to pay close attention to any side effects you experience. Common side effects include headache, facial flushing, nasal congestion, muscle aches, and diarrhea. These are all normal and usually go away after a few hours of taking the medication.
What Forms Does Sildenafil Come In?
Sildenafil is available in both tablet and liquid forms. The former is considerably easier to take and ensures a quicker onset of action. The latter is more convenient if you’re driving or in a situation where you can’t take a tablet (like during an airplane ride).