Men who experience erectile dysfunction (ED) use Viagra to get and maintain an erection for sex. Viagra, or sildenafil citrate, is a prescription drug that must be taken under a doctor's supervision.
ED
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, erectile dysfunction can be caused by a variety of factors--including diabetes, hypertension and hardening of the arteries. Those who have trouble maintaining proper blood sugar levels may have problems getting an erection. Hormones and some medications can interfere with a man's ability to get and maintain an erection. Alcohol and tobacco use also have been linked to ED. Mental issues, including relationship problems, high stress levels, fear and anxiety and self-consciousness all may contribute to erectile dysfunction.
Blood Flow
Viagra works by increasing the flow of blood to the penis, allowing it to get hard. Various health issues, stress and psychological factors can prevent the flow of blood and a man's ability to have an erection. After taking the medication, sexual arousal then increases the blood flow to the penis area appropriately; Viagra does not create spontaneous erections. The medication works for about 4 hours, and then blood flow returns to normal.
Timing
Viagra begins to work within about 30 minutes after a man takes the small blue tablet. Studies done by Pfizer have produced results in the majority of test subjects in less than 20 minutes. For men in good health, the drug can be taken once a day. The pill works immediately for most men, while Pfizer reports some men must take it three or four times before it becomes effective. Studies also showed that 1 in 4 men who were given a placebo also had improved erections.
Risks
The American Academy of Family Physicians recommend that men who take nitrates for a heart condition may be at risk of a sudden drop in blood pressure from taking Viagra and should not take the pill. Men older than 65 and those who have had kidney problems risk complications from the ED medications, as do those taking HIV medications such as protease inhibitors. Mild side effects are common and include headache, flushing and runny nose. Other rarer side effects include vision loss, blurred vision and light sensitivity.
Other Uses
Viagra was initially invented to help seniors with low blood pressure, not as a sexual aid. According to the Mayo Clinic, researchers are having positive results in studies using the drug to treat other heart and blood flow problems. The Food and Drug Administration has approved Viagra for use in treating pulmonary hypertension, a rare lung disease.
