Viagra is a drug used to treat erectile dysfunction. Prescribed more commonly for men who are unable to achieve an erection, researchers are also investigating the use of this medication for women. It works by helping to increase blood flow into the penis during sexual stimulation and help the man achieve and maintain an erection. However, like all other medications it does not affect just one area of the body and can have health risks.
Drug Interactions
Viagra is a drug that will interact with other medications already in the body. According to Drugs.com, the medication will interact with drugs containing nitrates in any form, including tablet, capsule, patch or ointment. Medications that contain nitroprusside, amyl nitrate, nitrite, or butyl nitrate will experience drug interactions that can result in a heart attack or stroke. Any other medications that contain sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra, will also increase health risks in men.
Priapism
Priapism is an erection that doesn't go away after four hours. Although rare, according to MayoClinic.com, it can be painful and requires immediate medical treatment to avoid damage to the penis. When the penis is engorged with blood to maintain an erection, it reduces the oxygen supply to the muscle. The reduced oxygen supply will cause cell death in the muscles that support the penis. An erection will also not allow the man to empty his bladder.
Hearing and Vision
According to Drugs.com, individuals may experience a sudden decrease in hearing or hearing loss while taking Viagra. Occasionally, ringing in the ears or dizziness may occur. More rarely, individuals can experience an eye problem that results in decreased vision or permanent loss of vision. This can happen in one or both eyes.
Cardiac Function Problems
Not all men can safely take medications which treat erectile dysfunction. According to MayoClinic.com, these medications will present a significant health risk if the individual has an underlying health condition such as high or low blood pressure, a history of stroke, sickle cell anemia, leukemia, eye problems or a history of heart disease, such as heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms or a recent heart attack. Individuals who suffer from these medical conditions will experience cardiac function problems because the Viagra mechanism of action creates greater arterial blood flow. These patients may be counseled to consider other alternatives to address erectile dysfunction.
Side Effects
Although not a serious health risk, some men will experience side effects from taking Viagra. According to MayoClinic.com, these side effects can include headaches, skin flushing, indigestion, temporary vision changes and stuffy or runny nose. Any side effects experienced from taking Viagra should be reported to the physician in order to evaluate whether or not they represent a greater health risk based on the individual's underlying medical condition or other medications he may be taking.
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