Viagra Information (frequently asked questions)
The following
Viagra frequently asked question section is for informational
purposes only. The information has been compiled from a variety
of resources in order to give the reader an overview of the use
and various effects of Viagra. This information does not represent
a definitive guide to the use of Viagra nor is the information
intended to replace the advice of a qualified healthcare professional.
What
is Viagra?
How
does Viagra work?
Why
is Viagra sometimes referred to as sildenafil citrate?
What
is the appropriate dose?
What
about pill splitting?
What
clinical studies have been done?
How
much time must surpass before Viagra is effective?
What
happens if there is no sexual stimulation following the ingestion
of Viagra?
What
are the side effects of Viagra?
What
are precautions/warnings concerning Viagra?
Can
I use Viagra with other medications?
Why
is Viagra absolutely contraindicated in individuals who are currently
taking medications containing nitrates?
Can
I get Viagra over the counter?
Should
I use Viagra if I have not had sexual intercourse in a long time?
For
what types of Erectile Dysfunction (impotence) is Viagra proving
to be especially effective?
Is
Viagra less effective in treating ED that is secondary to certain
underlying medical conditions?
Can
Viagra be combined with other treatments for erectile dysfunction?
What
if Viagra does not produce the desired effects that I anticipated?
Is
there a potential for Viagra to be used in the treatment of ED
in women?
What is Viagra?
Viagra is the first significant oral medication for the treatment
of Erectile Dysfunction (ED). The medicine was originally
developed as a cardiovascular medicine designed to improve blood
flow in the vessels of the heart. However, during initial
studies the medication was found to have a profound side effect.
Individuals began to report a remarkable difference in their ability
to achieve and maintain an erection. Further studies were
completed and on March 27, 1998, the medication was approved by
the FDA for the treatment of (ED), later that fall Viagra was
approved in the European Union and has since been approved by
regulatory authorities in over 100 countries around the world.
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How does Viagra work?
Viagra is dispensed as a pill and ingested
orally. Approximately 30-60 minutes later the drug is absorbed
in the bloodstream. Viagra then functions as an inhibitor
to an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type (PDE5) which is found
primarily in the penis. By inhibiting PDE5, smooth muscle
in the penis remains relaxed for a longer period. This allows
for increased blood flow into the cavernous tissue of the penis
thereby generating an erection. Viagra is unique in that
it increases a natural occurring process, therefore, only through
sexual stimulation will an erection occur.
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Why is Viagra sometimes referred to as sildenafil
citrate?
Sildenafil citrate is the generic name for
Viagra pronounced as sill-DEN-uh-fil citrate. The generic name
represents the medications nonproprietary or chemical name, whereas,
the brand name is the name a pharmaceutical give to a medication
for marketing purposes.
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What
is the appropriate dose?
The standard dose is 50mg one hour prior
to sexual activity. However, if you are older than age 65
or have a serious kidney or liver disease some physicians will
recommend starting with the minimal dose of 25mg. Viagra
should not be taken more than once per any 24-hour period and
doses should not exceed 100mg. The half-life of Viagra,
the time the drug remains effective after ingestion, is approximately
four hours.
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What
about pill splitting?
Viagra is manufactured in 25mg, 50mg and
100mg tablets. Most physicians would agree that since Viagra is
a lifestyle medication there is no harm in splitting the 100mg
tablets into two 50mg doses for a significant cost savings.
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What clinical studies have been done?
Viagra was administered to more than 3000
patients (age 19-87 years) with (ED) of various etiologies (organic,
psychogenic or mixed) with a mean duration of 5 years. Viagra
demonstrated statistically significant improvement as compared
to a placebo in all studies. In one particular study concerning
the frequency of successful penetration during sexual activity
and maintaining erection after penetration, 83% of these patients
reported an improved erection on Viagra verses 12% on a placebo
medication.
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How much time must surpass before Viagra
is effective?
Viagra is rapidly absorbed. Maximum
observed plasma concentrations are reached within 30 to 120 minutes
(median time 60 minutes) of oral dosing on an empty stomach.
Note: when Viagra is taken with a high fat content meal, the rate
of effectiveness can be significantly diminished.
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What happens if there is no sexual stimulation
following the ingestion of Viagra?
Viagra is naturally eliminated from your
body in a few hours.
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What are the side effects of Viagra?
The side effects of Viagra are relatively
few and if they do occur, they are usually short lived.
However, some patients have reported the following side effects:
- Congestion
- Diarrhea
- Facial
Flushing
- Headaches
- Urinary
Tract Infections
- Visual
Changes (mild and temporary changes in blue/green colors or
increased sensitivity to light)
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What are the precautions/warnings concerning
Viagra?
Men who are taking medicines that contain
nitrates (Nitroglycerin) of any kind must never use Viagra.
Patients should not take Viagra even if you only take nitroglycerin
medication occasionally. There is also a potential for cardiac
risk during sexual activity in patients with preexisting cardiovascular
disease. Therefore, Viagra should not be used in men where
sexual activity is inadvisable because of their underlying cardiovascular
status. Several medications are known to interact with Viagra.
Therefore, one should inform their physician concerning all medications
they are taking, including those medications acquired by a prescription
as well as over the counter medicines. The use of Viagra
offers no protection against sexually transmitted diseases, including
HIV. Patients should continue to use protective measures
necessary to guard against these diseases. In case of an
overdose, call your physician immediately.
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Can I use Viagra with other medications?
Yes, it is generally safe to use Viagra
while on other medications, however some medicines may potentate
the effects of Viagra. Individuals should always consult
with their healthcare provider prior to taking any medication.
Note Viagra does have one absolute contraindication; individuals
who are taking medication-containing nitrate (even intermittently)
should not take Viagra.
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Why
is Viagra absolutely contraindicated in individuals who are currently
taking medications containing nitrates?
Viagra has been shown to increase the hypotensive
effects of nitrates to life threatening levels. Therefore,
individuals who are currently using nitrates in any form even
intermittently should not take Viagra. Nitrates are available
in many medications; sprays, ointments, skin patches, pastes and
tablets dissolved in the mouth. Nitrates are also found
in illicit drugs such as amyl nitrate or nitrite "Poppers".
If you are unsure if you are currently taking nitrates please
value your health and consult with your local physician or pharmacist.
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Can I get Viagra over the counter?
No,
Viagra should only be taken by prescription from a licensed physician.
Regulations do not permit Viagra to be taken without prescription.
Secondary to the advent of the internet individuals may now order
Viagra online simply by completing an online medical questionnaire.
Subsequently, a licensed physician will review your medical history
and patient profile. If approved for a Viagra prescription,
your order shipped discreetly to your home or office in 1-2 business
days (order Viagra online now).
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Should I use Viagra if I have not had sexual
intercourse in a long time?
Sexual activity can cause a strain on the
cardiovascular system. If you have not had any physical activity
or if you have any pre-existing medical conditions you should
consult with your local physician prior to using the medication.
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For
what types of Erectile Dysfunction (impotence) is Viagra proving
to be especially effective?
Viagra is showing optimal results in individuals
who experience ED secondary to high levels of anxiety (performance
anxiety) and individuals with mild ED.
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Is Viagra less effective in treating ED
that is secondary to certain underlying medical conditions?
This question is somewhat difficult to answer
right now. More data is expected in the near future.
Some initial data suggests that men, who have undergone radical
prostatectomy (surgical removal of their prostate), using nerve-sparing
procedures, are not achieving the same positive results with Viagra.
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Can Viagra be combined with other treatments
for erectile dysfunction?
The use of such combined treatments is not
recommended, since no studies have been done to access Viagra's
safety and effectiveness.
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What if Viagra does not produce the desired
effects that I anticipated?
If Viagra does not produce the desired effects
do not despair. Viagra is just one in many treatment options for
erectile dysfunction (please see
the erectile dysfunction information section).
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Is there a potential for Viagra to be used
in the treatment of ED in women?
There are currently several medical research
centers that are studying whether Viagra is a viable oral therapy
for woman. Unfortunately, secondary to their anatomy, researchers
know less concerning female sexual dysfunction than with the male
sexual dysfunction. Historically, research has focused on male
sexual dysfunction. Until we have a better understanding
of the physiological processes causing sexual dysfunction in women
are ability to treat the condition is limited. Although
some physicians are prescribing Viagra to their female patients,
it is important to note, the FDA has not approved the medication
for the treatment of sexual dysfunction in women.
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