Viagra (Sildenafil): Uses, Benefits, and Side Effects
Authored by Kelly Brown MD, MBA
Whether you’re a high school senior or a senior living resident, you’re probably familiar with Viagra (sildenafil) — the original medication for erectile dysfunction (ED). While most people have a general idea of what Viagra does, not everyone understands the mechanics behind it.
So, what exactly is Viagra and how does it work?
In this article, we will delve into the origins of Viagra, its benefits for sexual performance, the advantages it offers for men, and the potential side effects of usage.
What Is Viagra?
Viagra is a prescribed medication for ED that can aid adult men of all ages in achieving and maintaining firm erections during sexual activity. When used as directed, it is deemed safe and effective.
What Is Viagra/Sildenafil Used For?
Sildenafil, sold under the brand name Viagra, is used to treat ED, Raynaud’s phenomenon, and pulmonary arterial hypertension. To grasp how Viagra functions, a brief understanding of ED is needed.
Sometimes, the muscles responsible for regulating blood flow and maintaining an erection post-stimulation may not function correctly due to an enzyme known as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). Viagra inhibits PDE5 and acts as a vasodilator, dilating blood vessels to enhance blood flow. Typically, a single dose of sildenafil can produce a firmer and longer-lasting erection, with a success rate of 70 to 80% in patients.
Originally, sildenafil citrate was developed by Pfizer in 1998 as a treatment for hypertension and angina. While it can still be used for hypertension, its primary purpose now is for ED treatment, with other options preferred for managing high blood pressure and heart conditions.
Benefits of Viagra: What Does Sildenafil Do for Men?
Viagra has been credited with various health benefits for men, attributed to its ability to increase blood flow. While it can assist with ED management, it is not a cure-all for all sexual performance issues. It is important to note that Viagra does not impact penis size, libido, or fatigue during sexual activity, as confirmed by a study on 60 men.
Viagra’s uses extend beyond ED treatment and may be beneficial for conditions like pulmonary arterial hypertension, mountain sickness, Raynaud’s phenomenon, and heart disease. Further details on these alternative uses and their effects will be explored in the subsequent sections.
ED Pills for Men: Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a serious condition where the small vessels in the lungs narrow, causing high blood pressure. Normally, the pulmonary artery carries oxygenated blood from the lungs to the heart. With PAH, these arteries are blocked or narrowed, hindering proper blood flow. This raises lung blood pressure, forcing the heart to work harder, potentially leading to heart failure.
Viagra can lower lung blood pressure as a vasodilator, similar to its effects elsewhere in the body. Sildenafil reduces lung blood pressure, easing the heart’s workload. In a study comparing sildenafil and bosentan for PAH treatment, sildenafil proved effective when used with other therapies like diuretics. Marketed as Revatio for PAH, sildenafil is an FDA-approved option.
Mountain Sickness
Altitude sickness can accompany mountain climbing. Some suggest that Viagra, by dilating blood vessels, enhances blood flow to the heart, increasing oxygen delivery to the lungs and body. A study on cyclists at high altitudes found improved heart function, oxygen levels, and performance with Viagra. However, more research is needed for broader approval.
Raynaud’s Phenomenon
Raynaud’s phenomenon limits blood flow to the hands and feet, causing numbness and coldness, often triggered by cold or stress. While usually mild, severe cases can lead to tissue damage. A small study showed Viagra reduced Raynaud’s attacks after dosing participants with sildenafil. While not a first-line treatment, Viagra could be considered if standard options fail.
Heart Disease
Heart failure can occur when the left ventricle struggles to pump blood effectively, leading to lung congestion and fluid buildup. Long-term sildenafil use has been shown to improve left ventricle function and structure in heart failure. By inhibiting PDE5, sildenafil may prevent heart muscle thickening, easing blood pumping.
Research has also indicated potential for enhancing the heart’s pumping capacity, but further studies are required.
Similar to any medication, the use of Viagra may come with both benefits and side effects. When used as prescribed, Viagra is considered safe.
Common side effects of Viagra may include flushing, nasal congestion, headaches, back pain, body aches, and indigestion. These side effects are typically mild and tend to diminish over time. It’s important to be aware of more serious side effects, such as eye issues, chest pain, hearing loss, priapism, and an increased risk of heart problems.
When it comes to drug interactions, combining Viagra with certain medications, such as antihypertensives or antiretrovirals, can lead to adverse effects. It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider of any existing conditions or medications before taking Viagra.
Viagra generally takes effect within 30 to 60 minutes after ingestion. It is important to note that arousal is still required for the medication to work. Taking Viagra on an empty stomach may lead to faster effects, while consuming it with high-fat foods could delay its onset. Another ED medication, Stendra, may work faster, starting to work within 15 minutes of ingestion.
The effects of Viagra typically last around four hours, providing a window during which one may achieve and sustain an erection with proper stimulation. It is crucial to follow healthcare provider instructions when using Viagra to avoid potential risks and maximize its benefits.
The medication is designed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). While it may not impact your sexual desire, it can be highly effective if you struggle with achieving and maintaining an erection. It is not the sole ED medication available. Other options such as Cialis (tadalafil), Levitra (vardenafil), and Stendra (avanafil) are also viable treatments. It is crucial to seek guidance from a healthcare professional. Always consult a reputable healthcare provider for advice on the appropriate usage of this medication, and disclose any other medications or supplements you are currently taking. This article was originally published on Hims.com and distributed by MediaFeed.org.
