Understanding what Viagra does is essential for anyone considering this medication for Erectile Dysfunction or other medical conditions. Viagra, scientifically known as Sildenafil, works by temporarily increasing blood flow, primarily the penis in men experiencing Erectile Dysfunction or ED.
This prescription medication has revolutionised treatment for millions of men worldwide, offering hope and restoring confidence. However, its effects extend beyond just treating ED or Erectile Dysfunction, as it also addresses Pulmonary Hypertension or PH by relaxing blood vessels in the chest area. So read on to understand what does Viagra do?
What does Viagra do to the body?
Viagra, or Sildenafil Citrate, works by enhancing blood flow, most notably the penis. It’s primarily prescribed to treat Erectile Dysfunction by targeting the physiological mechanisms involved in achieving or maintaining an erection.
Usually, during sexual arousal, the body releases nitric oxide in the penis. This activates an enzyme, guanylate cyclase, which increases cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP) levels. cGMP relaxes the smooth muscle cells in the penile blood vessels, allowing them to widen and fill with blood—this causes an erection.
However, in men with ED, another enzyme called Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) breaks down cGMP too quickly. This prevents the blood vessels from relaxing properly, making it challenging to get or maintain an erection.
Viagra inhibits the PDE5 enzyme, preventing it from degrading cGMP too soon. This allows cGMP levels to remain elevated, enabling improved flow of blood to the penis during sexual stimulation.
The result is a firmer, longer-lasting erection—but only in response to sexual arousal. Viagra does not cause arousal itself; it simply supports the body’s natural response when aroused.
What does Viagra do to women?
Viagra is not approved for use in females and generally has no proven benefit for women’s sexual function. While some products marketed as “female Viagra,” like Super Lovegra, are available, they usually contain Sildenafil (the same ingredient as male Viagra). However, Sildenafil has not shown consistent effectiveness in women and may cause side effects like nausea, dizziness, or vision changes.
On the other hand, the FDA-approved medication for treating low sexual desire or libido in premenopausal women is Flibanserin, which works differently from Viagra. Another newer option, Bremelanotide, has also been approved for similar use.
So, while some pharmacies sell products, it’s essential to know they’re not officially approved for female use and should only be used under medical guidance.
What does Viagra do to a young man without ED?
Viagra is not intended for young men who do not have Erectile Dysfunction. It does not offer proven benefits when taken without a medical diagnosis and may lead to unnecessary health risks. Some young adults may misuse Viagra for performance enhancement or out of curiosity, but scientific studies do not support its safety or effectiveness in healthy individuals without ED.
Additionally, Viagra is not approved for use in adolescents or children, and there is little research on its long-term effects in these age groups. Misusing the medication without medical supervision increases the risk of side effects such as headaches, dizziness, blood pressure changes, or even psychological dependence.
Simply put, using Viagra recreationally offers no meaningful advantages and may do more harm than good
What does Viagra do to blood pressure?
In cases of Pulmonary Hypertension, Viagra helps by relaxing the blood vessels in the chest area and lungs. However, taking it alongside nitrate medications can be dangerous, as the combination may cause a severe and potentially life-threatening drop in blood pressure. The medication’s impact on blood pressure is significant and requires careful medical supervision.
What Viagra does to blood pressure varies depending on your health status and other medications. If you already use medicine for High Blood Pressure, Sildenafil could make your blood pressure go too low, potentially causing blurred vision, confusion or dizziness. This is why medical consultation is essential before beginning ED treatment.
Dosage and safety considerations
It takes around 30 to 60 minutes for Sildenafil to work for Erectile Dysfunction, and you can take it up to 4 hours before you want to have sex. A higher dose of Viagra does not guarantee improved effectiveness and may elevate the likelihood of experiencing side effects.
Adults up to 65 years of age typically take 50 milligrams as a single dose no more than once daily, while adults 65 and older usually take 25 mg.
Taking too much Viagra can result in serious complications, including prolonged erections (Priapism), severe drops in blood pressure, and other dangerous side effects of Sildenafil. You should not take more than one Sildenafil tablet in 24 hours and should not take Sildenafil if you are taking other medicines for ED.
Conclusion
Understanding what does Viagra do, helps individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare. Viagra (Sildenafil Citrate) effectively treats Erectile Dysfunction by increasing or elevating the blood circulation to the penis during sexual arousal while also serving as a treatment for Pulmonary Hypertension.
However, Viagra can significantly impact blood pressure and interact with various medications. The medication is specifically designed for men with diagnosed Erectile Dysfunction and should never be used recreationally or by individuals without medical supervision.
Always consult with healthcare professionals before starting Viagra treatment to ensure safety and appropriate usage for your specific medical needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Viagra affect sperm quality or fertility?
No. Current research suggests that Viagra does not negatively impact sperm quality or male fertility. Some studies indicate it might even have neutral or slightly positive effects on sperm motility, but more research is needed for definitive conclusions.
How long does Viagra stay in your system?
Viagra typically remains active in your system for 4-6 hours, though traces can be detected for up to 24 hours. The medication’s peak effectiveness usually occurs 30-120 minutes after taking it, depending on individual factors like metabolism and food intake.
Can Viagra cause dependency or addiction?
No. Viagra is not physically addictive as it doesn’t create chemical dependence. However, some men may develop psychological reliance on the medication for sexual confidence. This psychological dependence is different from physical addiction and can be addressed through counselling.
What does Viagra do to your vision, and why?
Viagra can temporarily affect colour vision, particularly blue-green discrimination, because PDE5 enzymes are also present in retinal tissue. This rare side effect occurs because the medication slightly affects blood flow to the optic nerve, usually resolving within hours.
What does Viagra do if taken on an empty stomach versus with food?
Taking Viagra on an empty stomach allows faster absorption, typically working within 30 minutes compared to 60-90 minutes with food. High-fat meals can significantly delay effectiveness, as fatty foods slow the medication’s absorption into your bloodstream and reduce peak concentration.
What does Viagra do when you’re dehydrated?
Dehydration can intensify Viagra’s blood pressure-lowering effects, potentially causing severe dizziness or fainting. Proper hydration is essential when taking Viagra, as dehydration reduces blood volume and amplifies the medication’s cardiovascular effects, increasing the risk of complications.
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