Viagra

What is Viagra?

Viagra is a drug meant for erectile dysfunction treatment. By relaxing muscles, Viagra increases the blood flow to certain areas of the body.

The drug can also be used for other purposes besides those mentioned in this guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Viagra?

You shouldn't take Viagra if you are currently using any drug for heart problems or chest pain like nitroglycerin (Nitro-Bid, Nitrostat, Nitro-Dur, Nitrolingual, etc), isosorbide mononitrate (Monoket, Imdur, ISMO) and dinitrate (Isordil, Dilatrate-SR, Sorbitrate). Be aware that recreational drugs like nitrite or amyl nitrate contain nitrates as well. If you mix Viagra with one of these drugs, it may lead to decreased blood pressure, heart attack, stroke or fainting. Contact your health care provider at once in case you experience tingling in your jaw, chest, neck or arms; feel dizzy; suffer from nausea; or have pain or numbness during sexual activity. If your erection brings painful sensations or lasts longer than 4 hours, you should seek immediate medical help. Keep in mind that priapism (a prolonged and painful erection) can be harmful for your penis.

Take into account that taking Viagra may result in sudden loss of vision, because this drug can decrease the blood flow to the optic nerve of the eye. The risk group includes patients with high cholesterol level, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease or a history of eye problems, as well as smokers and people over 50 years old. In case you experience sudden vision loss, you should stop using the medication immediately.

Before you start treatment with Viagra you should consult with your doctor if you have allergy to any medication, or if your suffer from heart rhythm problems, heart disease, too high or too low blood pressure, congestive heart failure, liver disease, a bleeding disorder (hemophilia), kidney disease, a blood cell disorder (e.g. multiple myeloma, sickle cell anemia and leukemia), coronary artery disease, retinitis pigmentosa, a stomach ulcer, Peyronie's disease (a physical deformity of the penis); if you have a history of heart attack or stroke; or if you were prescribed to give up sex because of health condition.

FDA pregnancy category B. Viagra isn't expected to have a negative effect on a fetus. Consult with your health care provider before starting treatment with Viagra if you are pregnant or planning to become one. Avoid using Viagra if you are breastfeeding, as it is unknown whether Viagra influences breast milk.

How should I take Viagra?

Generally Viagra is used from 30 minutes to 1 hour before a physical intercourse. You can use the drug up to 4 hours before sexual activity. Do not take Viagra more than one time a day. Keep in mind that you will experience erection only after sexual stimulation is provided.

Store the drug away from heat and moisture. Keep it at room temperature.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Viagra is taken only when needed, so you are unlikely to miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek immediate medical help in case overdosage is suspected. The common symptoms are irregular heartbeat, lightheadedness, chest pain and nausea.