Viva Viagra

Dear Reader, 

First off, give yourself a pat — it’s great to do some homework on medications you’re interested in, particularly before deciding to use them. Generally, yes — sildenafil (more commonly known by its brand name, Viagra) is considered low-risk to use. However, this comes with the caveat that low-risk use of sildenafil is informed by a health care provider or pharmacist and that it’s obtained from a trusted source. For those who are unfamiliar, the medication in question is available by prescription and is made for individuals who have one of two complications — erectile dysfunction (ED) or pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Depending on the complication, the formulas are created differently in order to best address the given concern. The main differences between these two medications, besides what they treat for, is their dosage form and frequency.  

For treating ED in particular, how does it work? When the body naturally responds to sexual stimulus, it releases a chemical known as nitric oxide, which acts as a smooth muscle relaxant and increases blood flow to the penis. Sildenafil’s active ingredient, sildenafil citrate, enhances the effects of these chemicals and allows for more increased blood flow, thus causing an erection. Simply put, sildenafil helps the body do what it does naturally, making it distinct from other drugs prescribed for erection problems. Once taken, sildenafil takes about 30 to 60 minutes to start working.  

You might be wondering why someone would take this type of drug. Well, there are many different reasons why someone could have difficulty getting or keeping an erection. These reasons include but aren’t limited to: 

• Stress 
• Diabetes 
• Depression 
• Sleep disorders 
• Alcohol or drug intake 
• Disinterest in sex in general, or with a particular partner  
• High cholesterol or blood pressure 
• Low testosterone levels 

Adapted from Mayo Clinic. 

A growing body of research supports the idea that erection difficulties have both physiological and psychological determinants — a limp member doesn't necessarily mean a physical problem. As such, there may be even more options than using medication to address erectile difficulties. 

Whatever the reason behind achieving an erection or not, taking this drug may not be a safe for some folks due to their current health condition or medication use. If taken incorrectly or in combination with certain drugs (both legal and illegal), it can be hazardous to a person’s health. Specifically, sildenafil isn’t recommended for use in people who: 

• Take nitrate drugs that either are prescribed for chest pain (nitroglycerin, isosorbide mononitrate, and isosorbide dinitrate) or are obtained illegally (“poppers”) 
• Have active coronary heart disease, congestive heart failure, low blood pressure, liver disease, or kidney disease that requires dialysis 
• Take multiple medications for high blood pressure 

It’s also wise to review the potential side effects and complications of sildenafil, which can include: 

• Headache 
• Heartburn 
• Diarrhea 
• Nosebleeds 
• Muscle aches 
• Sensitivity to light and changes in color vision (seeing a blue hue on objects or having trouble distinguishing between blue and green) 
• Difficulty sleeping 

In addition to the common side effects associated with sildenafil, there are some that can be quite serious and require immediate medical attention. These side effects include: 

• Sudden, severe loss of vision, which could be permanent in some cases 
• Blurred vision 
• Sudden decrease or loss of hearing 
• Ringing in ears 
• Dizziness or lightheadedness 
• Fainting 
• Chest pain 
• Worsening shortness of breath 
• Erection that is painful or lasts longer than four hours 
• Itching or burning during urination 
• Rash 

Both lists adapted from Medline Plus.  

Like some other prescription drugs, sildenafil has made its way into the illegal drug trade and recreational drug use scene. Getting sildenafil through friends, family, illicit dealing, or off the Internet may be risky. It can be difficult to verify that the medication purchased illegally is indeed sildenafil. Furthermore, there is also the chance that there may be unanticipated complications or interactions if the use of the drug isn’t taken with guidance from a medical professional. Again, for those experiencing erection difficulties, it’s best to first speak with a health care provider who knows your medical history and can assess whether sildenafil is the best and safest solution for your specific situation. And if you’re feeling a bit sheepish talking about it, it may be helpful to remember that medical professionals have these types of conversations all the time. Sharing the details of what you’re experiencing may allow them to help you to the best of their ability. 

Ultimately, for those seeking virility via modern pharmaceuticals, obtaining sildenafil safely and while being aware of both potential side effects and complications can be an effective method for addressing erectile-related concerns. Here's hoping this information provided the straight-up facts you were looking for on this medication!