When working with Viagra, the brand name for sildenafil citrate, a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction in men. Also known as Sildenafil, it belongs to the class of PDE5 inhibitors, a group of drugs that relax blood vessels in the penis to improve blood flow. This effect directly targets erectile dysfunction, a condition where a man has difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. Understanding how Viagra fits into the larger picture of male sexual health helps you make smarter choices about treatment.
Viagra’s active ingredient, sildenafil, blocks the enzyme phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). By inhibiting this enzyme, the drug allows cyclic GMP to accumulate, which keeps the smooth muscle relaxed and lets blood fill the erectile tissue. The typical onset is 30‑60 minutes after a full‑glass of water, and the effect can last up to four hours, giving you a natural window for intimacy. Dosage comes in 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg tablets; most doctors start with 50 mg and adjust based on response and tolerance. Use it only once per day, and avoid heavy meals right before taking it because a full stomach can delay absorption.
Side effects are usually mild but worth knowing. Common reactions include headache, facial flushing, and an upset stomach. More serious concerns involve vision changes or a sudden loss of hearing, which require immediate medical attention. Viagra can also interact dangerously with nitrates such as nitroglycerin, leading to a sudden drop in blood pressure. If you have heart disease, uncontrolled hypertension, or are on medication for chest pain, discuss alternatives with your doctor before starting any PDE5 inhibitor.
Putting all this together, you now have the basics: what Viagra is, how it works, appropriate dosing, and what to watch for. Viagra offers a reliable option for many men dealing with erectile dysfunction, but it works best when paired with a clear understanding of its benefits and limits. Below you’ll find a curated list of articles that dive deeper into related topics—drug comparisons, safety checklists, and practical guides—to help you navigate your health choices with confidence.
