Viagra Eligibility: Medical Requirements and Safety
Age Requirements for Viagra in the UK
Viagra pills are licensed for use in adult men aged 18 years and over who experience erectile dysfunction. There is no upper age limit for Viagra use, though older patients may require more careful medical assessment due to increased likelihood of underlying health conditions. The medication is not licensed for use in women or individuals under 18 years of age.
Medical Assessment Process
Before prescribing Viagra, healthcare professionals must conduct a thorough clinical assessment. This evaluation includes reviewing your medical history, current medications, cardiovascular health status, and the nature of your erectile dysfunction. At EverydayMeds, our UK-licensed prescribers complete this assessment through our confidential online consultation service.
Cardiovascular Health Considerations
Your heart health plays a crucial role in determining whether Viagra is suitable for you. Men with severe heart disease, recent heart attacks (within 6 months), unstable angina, or uncontrolled high blood pressure may not be suitable candidates. This is because sexual activity itself places demands on the cardiovascular system, and Viagra can affect blood pressure.
Medication Interactions and Contraindications
Several medications create dangerous interactions with Viagra pills. Most importantly, men taking nitrate medications (such as GTN spray or isosorbide tablets) for heart conditions cannot safely use Viagra due to the risk of severe blood pressure drops. Other contraindications include riociguat for pulmonary hypertension and certain recreational drugs containing amyl nitrite.
Existing Health Conditions
Certain medical conditions require careful consideration before starting Viagra treatment. These include severe liver or kidney disease, blood disorders like sickle cell anaemia, inherited eye conditions, and stomach ulcers. Men with these conditions may still be eligible for treatment but require specialist medical oversight.
Branded Viagra vs Generic Sildenafil
EverydayMeds provides both branded Viagra (manufactured by Pfizer) and generic sildenafil tablets. Both contain the same active ingredient and work identically, with generic sildenafil typically available at a lower cost. Patients can choose their preferred option during our checkout process following successful consultation.
Psychological vs Physical Causes
Viagra pills can be effective for erectile dysfunction regardless of whether the underlying cause is physical, psychological, or a combination of both. However, the medication works best when sexual arousal is present, as it enhances the body's natural response rather than creating an automatic erection.
Starting Treatment Safely
Most men begin with a 50mg dose of Viagra, taken approximately 30-60 minutes before sexual activity. Depending on effectiveness and any side effects experienced, the dose may be adjusted to 25mg or 100mg. Only one tablet should be taken within any 24-hour period, and the medication should not be used more than three times per week.
