Most people have heard of Viagra which is commonly used to treat erectile dysfunction. Viagra works by blocking the action of a chemical within the body called ‘ phosphodiesterase type 5’.
How does that relate to an erection?
An erection occurs due to a complex set of signals via the brain and nervous system, and the release of chemical agents within the tissues of the penis. One of these chemical agents is ‘ cyclic GMP’ which is responsible for widening the blood vessels within the penis.
It does this by opening and relaxing a slim layer of muscle within the walls of the blood vessels. This enables a greater flow of blood into the penis which causes it to become stiff and erect.
Cyclic GMP is normally broken down by phosphodiesterase type 5. But, Viagra prevents this from happening which enables the blood vessels to remain dilated for much longer, thereby increasing blood flow and sustaining an erection.
Viagra is effective at boosting these chemical messengers, such as cyclic GMP as long as they are present. So, sexual stimulation will still be required.
Viagra should be taken one hour before sexual intercourse, but, the effects will take longer to appear if it is taken with food. So, take it on an empty stomach. Do not take it with grapefruit juice as this can increase the risk of side effects.
The effects of Viagra last for around 4 hours and tend to work ‘ on demand’: in other words, when you need them to work.
Viagra is to be used with caution in the following cases:
If you experience an erection which last for more than 4 hours then seek urgent medical advice as this may be a symptom of priapism. Plus there is the danger of permanent damage to the tissue within the penis.
Viagra can cause you to feel dizzy, light headed or nauseous. If you experience any of these symptoms then lie down until they ease. Avoid driving or operating any machinery if possible until they have eased.
Do not take Viagra more than once a day.
Viagra must not be taken by any of the following:
Plus if you experience an allergic reaction to Viagra or to any of its ingredients then stop taking this and speak to your GP as soon as possible.
Every form of medication can cause side effects but not everyone is affected to the same degree. Some people will experience mild effects whereas others have a severe reaction. All medicines affect people in different ways.
Viagra can cause a variety of side effects which range from common through to very rare. These include:
Headaches are a very common side effect whereas the other effects occur but less often.
Then there are uncommon or rare side effects which include:
There have been a few cases of priapism “ prolonged erection of the penis but these are very rare.
If you are taking any other form of medication such as alpha-blockers (used to treat high blood pressure), nitrate medicines, over the counter medicines or herbal remedies then speak to your GP.
It is important that you check with your GP first to see if it is safe for you to take a combination of drugs.
Mention to him/her if you thinking of taking a new form of medication as well as your erectile dysfunction medication. Do this before you take any cocktail of drugs.