Complete Viagra Reference Information
How Viagra Works
Viagra contains sildenafil citrate, which belongs to a group of medicines called PDE5 inhibitors. The medication works by blocking the phosphodiesterase type 5 enzyme, which increases blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal. Importantly, Viagra does not cause automatic erections - sexual stimulation is still required for the medication to be effective. The treatment is designed to help men achieve and maintain erections suitable for sexual activity.
Dosage and Timing Quick Facts
Viagra is available in three tablet strengths: 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg. Most men start with the 50mg dose, which can be adjusted up to 100mg or down to 25mg based on effectiveness and tolerability. Take one tablet approximately 30-60 minutes before sexual activity. The effects typically begin within 30-60 minutes and can last for up to 6 hours, though this doesn't mean the erection lasts for this duration.
Never exceed one dose within a 24-hour period. For optimal results, avoid taking Viagra immediately after a large or high-fat meal, as this can delay how quickly the medication works. Taking the tablet on an empty stomach or after a light meal typically provides faster results.
Common Side Effects to Expect
Understanding potential side effects helps you know what to expect when taking Viagra. Headache is the most common side effect, experienced by more than 1 in 10 men. Other frequent side effects include facial flushing, indigestion, nasal congestion, dizziness, visual disturbances (such as a blue tinge to vision), and nausea. Most side effects are mild and temporary, often reducing with continued use as your body adjusts to the medication.
Important Safety Information
Viagra must never be taken with nitrate medications, including GTN spray, isosorbide tablets, or recreational substances known as "poppers" containing amyl nitrite. This combination can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Similarly, men taking riociguat for pulmonary hypertension cannot use Viagra safely.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience an erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism), sudden vision or hearing loss, chest pain during sexual activity, or signs of a severe allergic reaction. These situations require urgent medical assessment.
Who Can Take Viagra
Viagra is suitable for adult men over 18 with erectile dysfunction who have completed a clinical assessment. The medication requires a prescription following consultation with a UK-licensed prescriber who will evaluate your cardiovascular health, current medications, and medical history. Men with severe heart disease, recent heart attacks or strokes, severe liver problems, or very low blood pressure may not be suitable candidates for treatment.
Branded vs Generic Options
EverydayMeds offers both branded Viagra and generic sildenafil, giving you choice in your treatment. Both contain the same active ingredient (sildenafil citrate) and have identical effectiveness and safety profiles. Viagra is the original branded version manufactured by Pfizer, whilst sildenafil is the generic alternative that typically costs less. The choice between branded and generic is a matter of personal preference - both are clinically equivalent.
Alcohol and Food Interactions
Moderate alcohol consumption is unlikely to cause problems when taking Viagra, but excessive drinking can reduce the medication's effectiveness and worsen side effects like dizziness. Both alcohol and sildenafil can lower blood pressure, so limiting alcohol intake is advisable. Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as these can increase sildenafil levels in your blood and potentially intensify side effects.
