The active ingredient in Viagra is sildenafil citrate. It’s a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5) inhibitor. Sildenafil citrate is chemically related to tadalafil and vardenafil.
Viagra comes in various forms, including tablets, liquids, and gels. The tablet formulation is the most popular, accounting for 84% of sales.
While all forms of Viagra work in much the same way, the differences in dosage form and the accompanying ingredients can impact how a person reacts to the medication. For example, the tablet form of the drug is generally favored by men with erectile dysfunction who are looking to avoid pregnancy. As a general rule, men with higher blood pressure should avoid taking any form of Viagra.
The Differences in Ingredients & Dosage
The most important difference between the various forms of Viagra is the ingredients that are inside. The tablet form contains sildenafil citrate, whereas the gel and liquid forms contain different pH buffers and other chemical ingredients to make it easier for the drug to be absorbed by the body.
The liquid form of vardenafil contains polyethylene glycol (PEG) 400. This ingredient is added to improve the flavor and aesthetic of the medication. It also serves to increase the solubility of the drug.
The gel form of tadalafil contains polyethylene glycol (PEG) 400 and hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC). HPMC is a polymeric compound that is used to improve the consistency and spreadability of the gel.
The ingredients in each form of Viagra impact how the drug interacts with the body in different ways. They can also change how the drug is absorbed by the body. Some men may experience side effects from different forms of the drug, even though they are prescribed the same dosage and follow the same regimen.
How Does Viagra Work?
When a person is looking to have an erection, a number of chemicals are released by nerve endings in the body. This series of reactions results in blood flow to the genitals. The erection then lasts long enough for the person to have intercourse. Sexual stimulation causes the release of nitric oxide by the nerves and blood vessels in the genitals. Nitric oxide then binds to soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) and causes it to change into an activated form. Activated sGC then converts guanosine triphosphate (GTP) into a form of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). Cyclic GMP regulates the smooth muscle relaxation that is necessary for an erection to occur.
The primary difference between cGMP and nitric oxide is that the latter is more stable and bioavailable. It also is better at diffusing within the body.
The Risks of Taking Viagra
The primary risk associated with taking Viagra is side effects. Since the drug is a phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor, there is a chance that a man could develop low blood pressure, especially if he has heart disease or takes another drug that affects the heart. Sildenafil citrate can also cause the skin to become more sensitive and dry. These are both dangerous side effects for someone already at risk. Other side effects include flushed face, indigestion, and diarrhea. Men should also avoid sexual activity while taking Viagra, as the medication could decrease their fertility. Women should not take this drug, due to the potential for an increased risk of sexual dysfunction.
How Is Viagra Recommended to Be Taken?
Viagra is typically taken as needed, either before sexual activity or at least within one hour of planned sexual activity. Men should not take it more frequently than once per day, as this may lead to blood pressure fluctuations. If a person suddenly stops taking the medication, there is a chance that his erectile function will return to its previous state. Daily use of this drug also may cause the person to become dependent on it and/or develop a tolerance to the effects of the medication.
Recommended Dosage of Viagra
The recommended dosage of Viagra ranges from 50 to 100 mg, taken orally, once per day. Younger men and those with heart problems should start with a low dosage and increase it slowly over time. Men who are already taking nitrates should start with a low dosage of the medication and increase it slowly. Care should be taken by individuals taking this drug to avoid excessive hydration, as this can potentially lead to edema and an even higher risk of heart disease.
Some men may require higher dosages of the drug. If a person is over the age of 65 or has a history of high blood pressure, it is advised that he start with a low dosage of the medication and increase it slowly.
The safety and effectiveness of Viagra have not been established in people with hepatic disorders or those taking another medicine for erectile dysfunction.
Is There Any Natural Alternative To Viagra?
If a person is looking for a natural alternative to Viagra, he should consider trying alprostadil. It’s a PDE-5 inhibitor that is derived from hog sperm. It is extremely potent and has a rapid onset of action.
Though alprostadil is a natural alternative to Viagra, it is not produced by a human being. It is also not meant to replace oral sex or masturbation as a form of male sexual health. The drug is most effective when administered through a mechanical device, such as a penis pump or injection.
Trying out these different sexual performance enhancers can help men learn what works best for them. If a person is not satisfied with the results of his first trial, he can take another dose or skip a day to see if his performance improves. As there are many different PDE-5 inhibitors, it’s important to see how each one affects a person before making a decision.