What is Viagra®?
Viagra® (sildenafil) is a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It enhances blood flow to the penis, helping men achieve and maintain an erection when sexually aroused.
Viagra® is not intended for use by women or children and should only be taken under the guidance of a licensed healthcare provider.
Who should not use Viagra®?
Do not use Viagra® if:
- You are taking medications called nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin) to treat chest pain. Combining Viagra® with nitrates can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
- You are using guanylate cyclase (GC) stimulators like riociguat for pulmonary hypertension.
- You are allergic to sildenafil or any of the ingredients in Viagra®.
If you are unsure about your suitability for Viagra®, consult your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
How should I take Viagra®?
Viagra® should be taken exactly as prescribed:
- Take one tablet about 30–60 minutes before sexual activity. The effects last for up to 4–6 hours.
- Do not take more than one dose within 24 hours.
- For best results, take Viagra® on an empty stomach or after a light meal, as a heavy or fatty meal can delay its effects.
Avoid combining Viagra® with other erectile dysfunction medications or over-the-counter ED treatments.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking Viagra®?
Before starting Viagra®, inform your doctor of your complete medical history, especially if you:
- Have a history of heart problems, such as angina, heart attack, or irregular heartbeat.
- Have low or high blood pressure.
- Experience prolonged or painful erections (priapism).
- Have kidney or liver disease, as this may require dose adjustments.
- Have vision problems, including retinitis pigmentosa or non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION).