Most Asked Questions About Viagra Treatment
What is Viagra and How Does It Work?
Viagra is the branded version of sildenafil citrate, manufactured by Pfizer. It works as a PDE5 inhibitor, blocking the phosphodiesterase type 5 enzyme to increase blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal. Viagra doesn't cause automatic erections - sexual stimulation is still required. The medication typically begins working within 30-60 minutes and effects can last 4-6 hours, though this doesn't mean the erection lasts this long.
EverydayMeds provides both branded Viagra and generic Sildenafil, giving patients choice between the original branded medication and the more cost-effective generic alternative. Both contain the same active ingredient and offer identical effectiveness.
What Dosages Are Available?
Viagra comes in three strengths: 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg tablets. The typical starting dose is 50mg, taken approximately one hour before sexual activity. Your prescriber may adjust this to 25mg if you experience side effects or increase to 100mg if 50mg proves insufficient. The maximum dose is one tablet per 24-hour period, regardless of strength.
High-fat meals can delay how quickly Viagra works, so taking it on an empty or light stomach may provide faster results. The medication should be taken with water and never crushed or split.
Who Can Take Viagra?
Viagra is suitable for adult men aged 18 and over who experience erectile dysfunction. However, it's not appropriate for everyone. You'll need to complete a clinical assessment with a UK-registered prescriber who will evaluate your cardiovascular health, current medications, and medical history.
Men taking nitrate medications (such as GTN spray for heart conditions) cannot take Viagra due to dangerous interactions that can cause severe blood pressure drops. Those with severe heart disease, recent heart attacks or strokes, severe liver problems, or very low blood pressure may also be advised against using Viagra.
What Are the Common Side Effects?
The most common side effect is headache, experienced by more than 1 in 10 users. Other frequent side effects include facial flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, dizziness, visual disturbances (such as a blue tinge to vision), and nausea. These effects are usually mild and temporary, often reducing as your body adjusts to the medication.
Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include priapism (painful erection lasting more than 4 hours), sudden vision or hearing loss, chest pain during sexual activity, or signs of allergic reaction. If you experience any of these, seek emergency medical help immediately.
How Does Viagra Compare to Generic Sildenafil?
Viagra and generic Sildenafil contain identical active ingredients and work in exactly the same way. The main differences are price and branding - Viagra typically costs more as the original branded product, whilst Sildenafil offers the same therapeutic benefits at a lower cost. Both are regulated to the same strict UK quality standards.
Some patients prefer the branded Viagra for reassurance, whilst others choose generic Sildenafil for better value. At EverydayMeds, patients can select their preference during the checkout process after completing their clinical consultation.
Important Drug Interactions
Never combine Viagra with nitrate medications or recreational drugs containing nitrates (such as "poppers"). This combination can cause life-threatening blood pressure drops. Alpha-blockers used for prostate problems may also interact, potentially causing dizziness or fainting.
Inform your prescriber about all medications you're taking, including over-the-counter products and supplements. Some HIV medications, antifungals, and certain antibiotics can affect how your body processes Viagra, potentially requiring dose adjustments.
