Viagra (sildenafil)
General information on Viagra
Viagra, with active ingredient sildenafil, is used for treating erectile dysfunction in men. Erectile dysfunction is characterized by total inability to maintain an erection or an inability to maintain an erection for a sufficient amount of time for proper intercourse. Viagra belongs to a class of drugs known as PDE5 inhibitors. An erection is obtained when the muscles in the penis relax, allowing blood to flow through them. PDE5 is the chemical responsible for reversing the erection by taking the blood out of the penis. Viagra works by inhibiting the production of PDE5, thus allowing blood to stay longer in the penis, hence helping maintain a longer erection.
Precautions/side effects of Viagra
Patients who are taking nitrate drugs should refrain from taking Viagra. Nitrate drugs include nitroglycerin, isosorbide dinitrate, isosorbide mononitrate etc. Taking nitrate drugs with Viagra can cause abnormally high or low blood pressure. Apart from that, patients with heart disease, stomach ulcer, hemophilia, liver disease or kidney disease should consult the doctor before taking Viagra.
Viagra is also known to react with certain medications such as medications for treating high blood pressure like ramipril and doxazosine, medicines for treating HIV such as delavirdine, antibiotics such as erythromycin, bosentan, imatinib etc. If the patient is on any of these drugs, the physician should be accordingly informed before taking Viagra.
The drug is also known to have certain side effects such as stuffy nose, stomach upset, headache and redness of the face and neck. However, in certain cases, it may lead to serious side effects such as blurred vision, nausea, prolonged or painful erection, inflammation of the hands or legs or irregular heartbeat. If any of these symptoms show up after taking the drug, a doctor should be consulted immediately.
Important safety information
- The drug should not be taken more than once a day. There should be a gap of at least 24 hours between two doses of the drug.
- The drug should be taken only when there is a need for sex. The drug will not cause an erection without stimulation. Taking the drug without the need for sex can be dangerous.
- People with heart problem or diabetes should take the drug with caution as it can lead to vision loss.
- Recreational drugs which contain nitrate should be avoided while on Viagra to avoid complications.
- Other drugs for treating erectile dysfunction should not be used while taking Viagra.
- Alcohol consumption should be kept to the bare minimum while taking this drug. Excessive consumption of alcohol while on Viagra increases the risk of side effects.
Dosage of Viagra
Viagra is available in 25 mg, 50 mg and 100 mg strength tablets. The usual dose of Viagra is 50 mg once a day 1-4 hours before sexual activity. However, the dosage may be increased or decreased depending on the response to the drug.
The drug is to be taken with a glass of water at least an hour before sexual activity. It should not be used without the need for sexual activity. Stimulation is necessary to make the drug work.
Overdose of the drug should be avoided at all costs. Overdose of the drug can lead to severe symptoms such as heart failure, high blood pressure, seizures etc. which need immediately medical attention.
Storage of Viagra
The drug should be stored in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight. It should be stored at room temperature out of reach of children and pets. The drug should not be refrigerated and should not be allowed to freeze.
