Viagra is the brand name for the drug sildenafil citrate. It is prescribed for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, or ED, a form of male impotence that occurs with aging. The drug works by dilating blood vessels in the penis so that blood can flow freely enough to engorge the penis and form an erection. It takes effect when the man is sexually aroused. Besides the treatment of ED, some side effects occur as a consequence of taking Viagra.
Heart Attack
One consequence of taking Viagra is a cardiac event, such as a heart attack, stroke or sudden death. The risk is especially great with those who have a history of heart disease, according to Drugs.com. Heart irregularities and surges in blood pressure are possible consequences from using the drug, especially during or shortly after having sex.
Vision Problems
Another consequence of taking Viagra is vision problems. Taking the drug can cause blurred vision, light sensitivity and visual abnormalities including a color abnormality in vision, sometimes called "blue vision," according to the Mayo Clinic. A sudden loss of vision also is possible.
Drug Interactions
Taking Viagra with certain other drugs can have dangerous side effects. Drugs.com states that taking Viagra in combination with nitrate-based drugs, a nitroglycerin patch or isosorbide pills may cause a severe drop in blood pressure that could lead to fainting or dizziness. Other drugs that should be avoided, according to the Mayo Clinic, include alpha blockers, antibiotics, blood thinners, anti-arrhythmic heart drugs and anti-seizure drugs.
Ignoring Underlying Health Problems
Taking Viagra does not address any underlying problems behind ED. Treating the impotency symptoms of underlying health problems may leave those problems untreated, and they may cause more difficulties. According to the Mayo Clinic, some of the underlying problems may include heart disease, diabetes, obesity and psychological problems like depression and anxiety.
Heart Health
Positive heart and circulatory therapies have been reported as a consequence of taking Viagra. According to the Senior Journal, Viagra can be a treatment for pulmonary hypertension as well as heart disease. Two other heart-related conditions the drug may treat include mountain sickness, in which high altitudes can cause a lowered oxygen availability, and Raynaud's phenomenon, in which sudden exposure to cold causes small artery spasms in the hands and feet, which can be quite painful.
