What is Viagra?

What is Viagra?

Viagra is one of the most widely recognized medications for treating male impotence (erectile dysfunction). It is a prescription medicine. You should not start using it without talking to a doctor first. Even so, erectile dysfunction (ED) medications are probably the most misused and even abused drugs.

How does it work?

Viagra contains sildenafil as the active ingredient. This is a phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitor. Once taken, the medication increases the flow of blood to the penis. This helps a man with erectile dysfunction to achieve a sturdy erection. The medicine further causes the erection to last longer.

Even so, it is important to understand that you will need sexual stimulation for you to get an erection. You will not just get an erection by taking the medicine. The effects of the Viagra will remain for up to 4 hours. This means you can still get an erection within 4 hours of taking the drug. All in all, you must never take more than one dose of Viagra within 24 hours.

How long does Viagra last?

The effects of using Viagra will vary form one individual to another. Viagra will generally start working within 30 minutes. This means you need to take the recommended dose at least 30 minutes before engaging in sexual activity. In response to how long the effects of Viagra last, there are a couple of factors that come into play:

• Age. The effects last longer in persons over the age of 65. This is because their metabolic system is slower. The doctor may recommend a smaller dose of 25mg instead of 50 or 100 mg.
• Diet. High fat meals will impede the absorption of sildenafil into the body. This may cause delays in absorption or reduced effects. Taking the dose on an empty stomach will cause rapid results.
• Alcohol. Alcohol decreases the flow of blood to your penis hence making it harder for you to get an erection. More than two units of alcohol will cause negative effects.
• Dosage. Based on your health, the doctor will prescribe the safest dose. A higher dose will cause lasting effects.
• Health. Kidney or liver problems will cause Viagra to last longer.

Precautions

Because Viagra causes more blood to flow to the penis, it is not recommended for persons with certain health conditions such as high or low blood pressure and any cardiovascular condition. The medicine may also cause you to feel dizzy and cause blurred vision. Avoid activities that require concentration after taking the recommended dose. Seek emergency medical help in case of a painful erection or one that lasts longer than 4 hours.