How Long Will Viagra Last?

How Long Will Viagra Last?
Photo Credit Jupiterimages/liquidlibrary/Getty Images

Viagra is prescribed for men who have erectile dysfunction or impotence and have difficulty getting an erection. Doctors usually advise men to take Viagra about 1 hour before they choose to have sex. It may start working from 10 to 40 minutes after taking the dose, which can be from 25 to 100 mg. It may also work for up to 4 hours after being taken, but this depends on the man and the situation. It may work faster and last longer when taken on an empty stomach. It may work better, or not at all, depending on how aroused the man feels. Viagra helps in developing and sustaining erections, but the man's feelings about sex at the particular time can make all the difference.

Function

The time that Viagra lasts in the system depends on a number of factors and individuals themselves. Although it can last as long as 4 hours, the time may be shorter for men over 65 years old, individuals with severe kidney or liver disease, and for people taking other medications. In some people, Viagra starts working in fewer than 15 minutes. For most people, however, it begins working within about 30 minutes.

Other Factors

Taking Viagra with a high-fat meal and taking it while using other medicines may reduce its effectiveness and the time that it lasts.

Follow Directions

Some men have trouble achieving an erection because they do not take Viagra the right way. Doctors will tell their patients to follow directions on the prescription label. The drug is taken by mouth and can be taken with or without food. Users should not take extra doses and follow the proper dosage on the directions from the doctor.

Results

If Viagra does not achieve the desired results--either in length of time or not working at all--the dosage amount of dosage can be readjusted by the doctor.

Prevention/Solution

One way to make Viagra work for you is to make sure you are in the mood for sex. Viagra will only help in achieving the necessary results if you have that desire. It works to help you maintain an erection physically. But as many sex experts will tell you, a great deal of sex is in the mind. No matter how well Viagra can work, you need to be in the mood.

References

Article reviewed by Helen Covington Last updated on: Nov 22, 2011

Must see: Photo Galleries