Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be treated with a variety of drugs. But the one you've probably heard about the most is probably Viagra (sildenafil). It became one of the most widely used medications on the market after being the first phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor to receive FDA approval for ED.
Viagra, sometimes referred to as "the little blue pill," aids in obtaining and sustaining an erection for sexual activity. However, if you've never taken Viagra before, you might be curious about how long it takes for it to start working.
For most men, Viagra starts to act within an hour. However, consult a medical professional if you've tried taking Viagra several times and it doesn't appear to work at all. They might suggest a different ED drug.
Viagra and its generics come in three strengths: 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg pills.
The instructions for using Viagra can appear simple at first. One tablet (50 mg) of Viagra should be taken orally one hour prior to engaging in sexual activity. Instead, you can take the drug 30 minutes to 4 hours before having sex, depending on how you react to it.
How effectively Viagra works for you can also depend on other things. Although you can take Viagra with or without meals, it functions best when taken without food. A high-fat diet slows down the absorption of this substance. Food can cause an hour-long delay in the onset of Viagra's effects.
That is, take Viagra on an empty stomach if you want it to start working faster. If you must take it with food, consider eating something light and low in fat.
Before you begin taking Viagra, it's critical to understand any potential drug and dietary interactions. Reactions vary depending on the contact.
Make sure your doctor and pharmacist have a current list of all the drugs and supplements you take to prevent any unfavorable side effects. Additionally, if your primary care physician prescribed you Viagra, be sure to ask them if you are okay with using it.
Viagra and other medications that inhibit PDE5 can help reduce your blood pressure. If you also use drugs for high blood pressure, you should exercise caution. Your blood pressure may go too low if you take them together.
Your liver's specific enzymes (proteins) are in charge of breaking down Viagra. Other medications you may be taking may have an impact on these enzymes. Certain drugs may increase the activity of these enzymes, decreasing the effectiveness of Viagra. They may be obstructed by others, which may increase the likelihood of adverse reactions from Viagra.
Thankfully, there are no negative effects if you miss a dose of Viagra. It is not intended to be taken daily as a maintenance drug. You should only take Viagra when absolutely necessary.
On the other hand, take your dose as soon as you remember if you forget to take it before having sex. A second dose of Viagra should not be taken. You might be at risk for adverse effects from this.