Viagra (sildenafil) is an oral tablet that helps treat erectile dysfunction (ED). It is part of a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. Viagra helps men address ED by improving the flow of blood to the penis when they are sexually aroused.
Viagra is blue, hence why it’s often referred to as “the blue pill.” It is diamond-shaped and says PFIZER on one side, as well as VGR and the dosage on the other. For example, VGR 50 means Viagra 50mg, VGR 25 means Viagra 25mg, and VGR 100 means Viagra 100mg.
How Does Viagra Work?
Viagra helps relax the blood vessels inside the penis, which improves circulation and allows more blood to reach it when a man is sexually aroused. It’s important to note that Viagra cannot enhance your sex drive, so if you aren’t in the mood, it won’t work. Instead, Viagra is designed to help men who are interested in having sex get or maintain their erections for longer periods of time.
How Long Does It Take for Viagra to Work?
Typically, Viagra takes 30 to 60 minutes to have an effect. It keeps working for up to 5 hours after you take it. After taking it, you should be able to get and maintain an erection for up to four hours. However, your erection shouldn’t last that long.
Can You Make Viagra Work Faster?
Taking Viagra on an empty stomach may speed up its effects, but this can also lead to nausea as PDE5 inhibitors smooth the muscles in your gastrointestinal tract. Eating Viagra on a full stomach, especially after a high-fat meal, can extend the amount of time it takes for the pill to work.
Potential Side Effects
Though Viagra has proven effective in clinical trials and is approved by Health Canada to treat ED, it can still have side effects. These may include:
- Nausea and upset stomach
- Indigestion
- Headache
- Mild and temporary changes to your vision (blurriness, light sensitivity, and a blue tinge)
- Stuffy nose
- Back and muscle pain
- Dizziness
- Rash
What Is Viagra Generic?
The generic version of Viagra is prescribed as sildenafil. These tablets are white or off-white and can be shaped like an oval or circle.
Sources:
Details for: VIAGRA - Drug and Health Products Portal
Viagra Pill Images - What does Viagra look like? - Drugs.com
Viagra (sildenafil): Side effects, dosage, how long it lasts, and more
Sildenafil Pill Images - What does sildenafil look like? - Drugs.com
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