What is Viagra?
Viagra is the world's first approved drug for treating erectile dysfunction and is produced by Pfizer. The active substance Sildenafil contained was originally developed as a heart medication, the potency-promoting effect being discovered during clinical trials.
Since its launch in 1998, Viagra has revolutionised the treatment of erectile disorders and helped millions of men worldwide. The name Viagra has become synonymous with potency.
The drug allows erection during sexual stimulation by improving blood circulation of the penis. The characteristic blue, diamond-shaped tablets are known worldwide.
Since 2013, the active ingredient Sildenafil is also available as a generic. These more favorable alternatives contain the identical active substance and are equally effective.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Sildenafil
Viagra contains the active ingredient Sildenafil, a so-called PDE-5 inhibitor. The mode of action is elegant and well researched:
In sexual excitation, the body releases nitric oxide (NO) in the penis. This activates an enzyme that produces the messenger substance cGMP. cGMP relaxes the muscles in the blood vessels of the penis, allowing more blood to flow and an erection.
Normally, cGMP is degraded by the enzyme phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5). Viagra inhibits this enzyme so that cGMP remains effective for longer. Erection can thus be created more easily and better maintained.
To understand:
- Viagra does not trigger automatic erection
- Sexual stimulation is still required
- The effect starts after about 30-60 minutes
- The duration of action is 4-6 hours
Who is it suitable for?
Viagra is approved for adult men with erectile dysfunction. It is suitable for various causes of erection disorder:
Organic causes:
- blood circulation disorders (e.g. in arteriosclerosis)
- Diabetes mellitus with vascular or nerve damage
- After prostate operations (if nerve paths are obtained)
- High blood pressure and its consequences
Psychical causes:
- Fear of failure
- Power pressure
- Stress and exhaustion
- Relationship problems
Mixed forms: In most cases there are both physical and psychological factors. Viagra can be effective independently of the cause.
Especially suitable for men who:
- A proven, well-examined treatment
- Place value on the original
- Finding an effective duration of 4-6 hours sufficient
Available Dosages
Viagra is available in three dosage levels:
**25 mg:* *
- Low dosage
- Recommended for men over 65 years
- With light to medium liver or kidney restriction
- Taking certain other medicines
**50 mg:* *
- Standard initial dose
- For most men the ideal entry
- Can be adjusted according to response
100 mg:
- Highest available dosage
- If 50 mg does not have sufficient effect
- Maximum daily dose
Dosing recommendation: Start with 50 mg. If the effect is insufficient and the compatibility is good, it can be increased to 100 mg. In case of severe side effects, a reduction to 25 mg may be useful.
How to Take
Intake date: Take Viagra about 30 to 60 minutes before scheduled intercourse. In some men, the effect can begin after 30 minutes.
With or without food: Viagra can be taken independently of meals. However, a high-fat meal can delay the absorption and extend the time until the action occurs. For best results it is recommended to take on sober stomach or after a slight meal.
The tablet:
- Take water with a glass
- Do not chew or split (except there is a break notch)
- Maximum one tablet per day
Activity: The action lasts about 4 to 6 hours. In this period, erections are possible for sexual stimulation. After this time, a tablet can be taken the next day.
Alcohol: Low amounts of alcohol are acceptable. Larger amounts can reduce the effectiveness and increase side effects.
Contraindications
**Viagra must not be taken at:* *
Nitrat therapy: If you are taking nitrates (e.g. nitrospray, isosorbide dinitrate) or amyl nitrite (Poppers). The combination can cause a life-threatening blood pressure drop.
Heavy heart disease:
- Heart attack in the last 90 days
- stroke in the last 6 months
- unstable angina pectoris
- Heavy heart failure
- Uncontrolled heart rhythm disorders
More contraindications:
- Low blood pressure (under 90/50 mmHg)
- Generic eye diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa
- Heavy liver disease
- Recent visual loss due to NAION (bleeding disorder of the optic nerve)
- allergy to sildenafil or other ingredients
Preview at:
- Blood coagulation disorders
- Active gastric ulcer
- Anatomical penis deformations
- Sichelzellanemia, leukemia or plasmozytome
Possible Side Effects
**Very common side effects (more than 10%):* *
- Headaches
- Face redness (Flush)
**Family side effects (1-10%):* *
- Blocked nose
- Indigestion
- visual disorders (e.g. bluish discoloration, increased light sensitivity)
- Squeeze
**Other side effects (0,1-1%):* *
- nausea, vomiting
- Skin rash
- Tear eyes
- Heart turf
- muscle pain
Seltene but serious side effects:
- Priapism: A painful erection that lasts longer than 4 hours. Immediately seek medical assistance!
- Sold visual loss: Rare, but immediate medical clarification required
- Sold hearing loss: Very rare, immediately consult a doctor
Most side effects are mild and disappear after a few hours by themselves.
Interactions
Absolute contraindicated combinations:
- Nitrate and NO donors: Nitroglycerol, isosorbide, molsidomine, amyl nitrite (Poppers) – Risk of life-threatening blood pressure drop
Important interactions:
- Alpha blocker (e.g. Tamsulosin, Doxazosin): Increased blood pressure reduction possible. Viagra only start after stable alpha blocker setting.
- CYP3A4 inhibitor (e.g. Ritonavir, Ketoconazole, Erythromycin): Increase the sildenafil concentration. Dose reduction required.
- Blow pressure media: Additives can reduce blood pressure.
- Other PDE-5-Hemmer: No combination with Tadalafil, Vardenafil or Avanafil.
- Grapefruit juice: Can increase the sildenafil concentration easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is Viagra right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.