If Viagra Isn’t Working: What to Do
Viagra, known as the “little blue pill,” is a popular medication for treating erectile dysfunction (ED). However, not everyone experiences the desired benefits from this medication. Here are some reasons why Viagra and other ED medications may not work for you, as well as steps you can take to improve your intimate performance:
Viagra and other ED medications, such as Cialis, Levitra, and Stendra, are designed to improve blood flow to the genitals, helping you achieve and maintain an erection. These drugs belong to a class called phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors, which work by relaxing blood vessels and increasing blood flow to the genitals.
There are several reasons why ED medications may not be effective for you. One common reason is that the underlying causes of ED, such as cardiovascular disease, may be worsening, leading to a higher failure rate for achieving arousal. Additionally, you may not be using the medication properly or your ED could be caused by factors unrelated to blood flow, such as performance anxiety or nerve damage.
If you find that Viagra is not working for you, consider discussing alternative medications with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on how to address the underlying issues causing your ED and help you optimize the effectiveness of your treatment.
In addition to medication, lifestyle changes and addressing potential underlying causes of ED can also help improve your intimate performance. By working with your healthcare provider and making necessary adjustments, you can enhance your sexual health and overall well-being.
Common Mistakes When Using Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Medications
Having trouble with your ED pills? You might be making mistakes in how you use them. While taking ED medications may seem straightforward — just swallow a pill with water before getting intimate — there is a technique to using them correctly. Below, we discuss six common mistakes men make when using ED drugs, along with steps you can take to correct them for better results.
1. Not Waiting Long Enough
ED medications like Viagra can improve blood flow to your genitals, but they do not work instantly. It can take anywhere from 15 minutes to two hours for the medication to take effect, depending on the specific one you’re using. To ensure optimal results, take your medication about an hour before intimacy. Be sure to follow the dosing instructions on the package or as advised by your healthcare provider. If you prefer not to time your dosing precisely, consider using a long-lasting option like Cialis, which can provide relief from ED for up to 36 hours per dose.
2. Taking the Wrong Dose
The severity of ED varies among individuals. While some may respond well to a low dose of Viagra or similar medications, others may require a higher dose. If you find that your ED persists despite using medication, consult your healthcare provider about adjusting your dosage. Viagra comes in three strengths (25mg, 50mg, and 100mg), with research indicating that a 50mg or 100mg dose is more likely to improve arousal. However, higher doses also carry an increased risk of side effects. If you suspect that your dose may not be strong enough, seek guidance from your healthcare provider.
3. Expecting Changes in Arousal
Medications like Cialis enhance blood flow to the genitals but do not directly impact arousal. If you’re not in the mood for intimacy, taking Viagra will not suddenly change that. Various factors, such as psychological disorders, relationship issues, sleep apnea, and low testosterone levels, can contribute to a decreased libido. If your ED is primarily linked to psychological arousal issues, ED medications may not be as effective.
4. Giving Up Too Soon
While ED medications are effective for most men, some may not notice immediate improvements after the first few doses. This could be due to nerves or performance anxiety. If you do not see results right away, do not give up on the medication. Give it a few more tries to allow yourself to adjust and become more comfortable with using it before intimacy. Persistence may lead to better outcomes.
If you continue to experience issues with your ED medication, consult your healthcare provider for further assistance.
After using Cialis or a similar ED medication several times, it is recommended to consult your healthcare provider.
Ignoring Underlying Medical Conditions
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often caused by underlying medical issues such as high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. Some medications like antiandrogens, antidepressants, tranquilizers, and certain blood pressure medications may also contribute to ED as a side effect. If you have an underlying medical condition or are taking any of the medications mentioned, ED drugs like Viagra may not be fully effective for you. It is advisable to discuss with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment for ED and enhance your performance.
Trying Only One Drug
Different individuals respond differently to medications, including those prescribed for ED. If the initial ED medication prescribed by your healthcare provider is not effective or does not produce the desired results, consider discussing the option of switching to another medication. While all oral ED medications work by inhibiting the effects of PDE5, some men may find that one drug works better for them than others. For instance, some may prefer the long-lasting effects of Cialis over the shorter effects of Viagra or Levitra. There are also newer medications like Stendra with fast-acting effects and low side effect risks. Exploring different options and trying several medications before finding the most suitable one is not uncommon.
Effectiveness of ED Meds
Research has shown promising results with ED medications. For example, a study involving 170 men with ED due to spinal cord injuries revealed that nearly 90 percent experienced improved arousal quality after taking sildenafil. A meta-analysis of 27 studies with over 6,600 men indicated that those taking sildenafil had more success compared to those on a placebo. The data also showed that 83 percent of men with ED who used sildenafil were able to have successful intimacy at least once during the study period.
Risks and Side Effects of ED Drugs
While ED medications like Viagra are generally safe for most men, they may have side effects and interact with other drugs. Common side effects of Viagra include headache, skin flushing, indigestion, abnormal vision, nasal congestion, back pain, muscle aches, nausea, dizziness, and rash. Other ED medications like Cialis and Levitra also have associated side effects. It is crucial to be aware of potential interactions with other medications, especially those used for treating conditions like high blood pressure and heart disease. Inform your healthcare provider of any other medications you are taking before starting ED medication to prevent adverse interactions.
Alternative Treatments for ED
If medications like Viagra do not seem to be effective for you, consider exploring alternative treatments for ED.
There are various options available to help improve your sexual function and enhance your intimate life. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but multiple paths that can lead to a fulfilling and satisfying intimate experience. Some common alternative treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED) include:
1. Injectable ED medications
2. Urethral suppositories
3. Vacuum constriction devices (pumps)
4. Implants
Your healthcare provider may recommend one of these options if oral ED medication is ineffective or unsuitable for you due to an underlying health condition.
Injectable ED Medications:
When oral medications do not yield the desired results, another option is using medication that is injected directly into the genitals. Alprostadil, sold under the brand names Caverject and Edex, is the only FDA-approved medication of this type for ED. It works by relaxing blood vessels, allowing blood flow into the genitals when aroused. The effects of alprostadil last for 30 minutes to one hour, with an onset time of five to 20 minutes.
Urethral Suppositories:
For those averse to needle injections, urethral suppositories containing alprostadil can be inserted into the urethra using a handheld device. This form of medication, known as MUSE, is absorbed through the urethral walls and acts quickly to improve blood flow, with an average onset time of five to 10 minutes.
Vacuum Constriction Devices:
In cases where physical injuries or surgery have impacted sexual function, a vacuum constriction device (VCD) can help by drawing blood into the genitals to induce arousal. A band is typically used to trap blood and maintain arousal during intimacy.
Implants:
For severe ED cases, implants placed inside the genitals can create arousal using an internal fluid mechanism or semi-rigid rod. Implantation is a surgical procedure usually recommended for individuals who have not responded to other treatments.
Psychotherapy:
In cases where ED is linked to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or stress, psychotherapy can be beneficial in improving arousal and function.
It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the most suitable treatment option for your specific needs and circumstances.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a helpful approach for addressing intimate health issues. This therapy focuses on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviors that impact intimate function and overall well-being. Research indicates that CBT can be beneficial for men dealing with erectile dysfunction (ED) by enhancing their intimate function and health.
While ED medications can alleviate symptoms and facilitate arousal, they may not address the root causes of the issue. Common risk factors for ED include obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, diabetes, high cholesterol, stress, poor diet, and a sedentary lifestyle. Making lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein, exercising regularly, and achieving a healthy body weight can naturally enhance intimate health. Quitting smoking can also positively impact vascular health and blood flow to the intimate organs.
If ED medications are ineffective, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for guidance. Adjusting the medication dosage, changing administration methods, or exploring alternative treatments may improve outcomes. Lifestyle modifications can also play a significant role in enhancing intimate function. For more detailed information on ED causes and treatment options, refer to our comprehensive guide on erectile dysfunction.
