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How Does Viagra Work? Understanding its Mechanism of Action

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Written by- Julian Carter
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Viagra, also known by its generic name Sildenafil, is a medication widely used to treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED) in men.

But how does Viagra work to treat ED? The medicine belongs to a class of drugs called Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, which work by enhancing blood flow to the penis.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how Viagra works and its effects on erectile function.

What does Viagra do to men

As mentioned above, Viagra helps treat Erectile Dysfunction (ED).

ED or impotence is a form of sexual dysfunction that makes it difficult for a man to get and keep an erection. This condition is common among people suffering from cardiovascular issues, Diabetes, or Hypertension.

Viagra contains the active component Sildenafil Citrate, a Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor.

This medicine helps in inhibiting the enzyme PDE 5 present in the body. This inhibition helps maintain the body’s desired cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP) levels.

The increase in cGMP levels allows the blood vessels in the penis to relax, allowing blood to enter the penile tissues.

The sponge-like tissues in the penis, known as corpora cavernosa, expand when filled with blood. This action causes the penis to get erect.

Thus, by inhibiting PDE5, Viagra works to enhance your body’s natural response to sexual stimulation.

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How quickly does Viagra work

Viagra starts taking effect within 30 to 60 minutes of consumption. 

Thus, doctors recommend taking your recommended Viagra dosage, as needed, 30 to 60 minutes before sexual intercourse.

It is essential to remember that Viagra doesn’t produce a spontaneous erection. It takes 30-60 minutes to reach its peak concentration in the bloodstream.

Viagra still requires adequate sexual stimulation to produce an erection.

Suggestion
This pill only works with sexual stimulation.

How long does Viagra last

The effects of Viagra generally last for 3 to 5 hours. After two hours of consumption, the effects of Viagra start fading.

The duration of Viagra may be impacted by dosage, metabolism, and other outside factors like age, body weight, and so on.

Studies state that taking Viagra may not prolong your erection or cause it to occur immediately after ejaculation.

You can read How Long Does Viagra Last? To know more about the longevity of Viagra.

How to enhance Viagra effects

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Suppose you are wondering about ways to make Viagra work faster. In that case, there are a few ways to maximize Viagra’s effects.

These include eating a light-fat meal, not consuming a high amount of alcohol, and waiting for the right time.

Eating a light-fat meal

High-fat meals could reduce the efficacy of the medicine. This is because heavy meals slow down the absorption of the medicine.

If you have already eaten a high-fat meal, wait till it’s time. Allow digestion for a couple of hours.

Wait for the right time

To feel excellent results, take this pill only when you are sexually stimulated. 

This pill might take 30 to 60 minutes to help you get and keep the desired erection for sexual intercourse.

Do not take alcohol

Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol might hamper your sexual pleasure. 

This is because alcohol, when mixed with Viagra, can drop blood pressure.

This might lead to side effects, such as dizziness or lightheadedness.

As a precaution, it is best to avoid consuming alcohol when taking Viagra.

Warning
Do not take Viagra pills without being recommended by the doctor. It is a prescription-based medicine that should be consumed only when the doctor suggests it.

Ultimately

Now that you know how Viagra works, it is used for the effective treatment of Erectile Dysfunction in men.

It works by easing the blood vessels around the penile region. Further, it facilitates easy blood flow. Hence, an erection is achieved.

These pills show their desired effect in 30 to 60 minutes. 

However, to enhance the effects of Viagra, eat a light-fat meal, wait for the right time, and do not consume alcohol.

Recommended Article: Unlocking the Truth: Is Viagra Safe for Seniors

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Viagra 100mg work?

Viagra shows its desired effect in 30 to 60 minutes.
You should not consume high-fat meals as it might reduce the effectiveness of the medicine’s absorption.

How fast does Viagra work on an empty stomach?

Viagra pills work faster when consumed with low-fat meals or without meals.

How can I make Viagra work better?

You can make Viagra work better by eating low-fat meals. Additionally, wait for the right time and do not consume alcohol in large amounts.

Citations:
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