Unveiling the Truth About Viagra by Lisa
In the quaint town of Kent, England, the unexpected happened in 1996. A Pfizer laboratory, while working on treatments for hypertension, stumbled upon the creation of Viagra. This small blue pill, embodying the Olympic motto “Citius, Altius, Fortius” (“Faster, Higher, Stronger”) for your manhood, quickly became a popular solution for a timeless issue. Two decades later, it continues to be a reliable remedy. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding the magic behind Viagra.
What exactly is Viagra?
Viagra, also known as Sildenafil, is primarily used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men, a condition where achieving a satisfactory erection for sexual intercourse becomes difficult.
How does an erection occur?
An erection is triggered by sexual stimuli, which could be physical contact or psychological, such as visual stimuli or erotic thoughts. This triggers your nervous system to release nitric oxide, a potent blood-vessel dilator. This results in the arteries and the corpora cavernosa (the main body of your penis) filling with blood. To maintain the erection, the ischiocavernosus and bulbospongiosus muscles in your penis constrict, effectively preventing the veins in your penis from draining the blood. In cases of ED, this process is not as effective.
How does Viagra assist?
Viagra works by inhibiting the breakdown of nitric oxide, allowing the blood vessels to dilate more effectively. This was discovered when scientists in Kent found that nitric oxide is regulated by enzymes in the cyclic guanylate monophosphate pathway, which are broken down by phosphodiesterases (PDEs). Viagra is a PDE inhibitor and prevents these enzymes from breaking down in the penis, allowing nitric oxide to work effectively.
Who should take Viagra?
Primarily, Viagra is licensed for men with ED. However, it has increasingly been used recreationally as a pseudo-endurance booster by men who do not have erection problems.
How long does Viagra last?
Viagra typically starts working 30 minutes after ingestion, provided there is sexual stimulation. It usually lasts for two to three hours, during which erections are easier to achieve and maintain, each lasting about 30 minutes. However, it requires planning as you need to know you’ll be engaging in sexual activity within the next 30 minutes.
What are the side effects of Viagra?
Viagra’s dilating properties affect other blood vessels in your body, not just those in your penis. Common side effects include headaches, blurred vision, and skin flushing. If you have heart disease, consult your doctor before taking Viagra as it may interact with your current medication. If you experience a painful erection that lasts more than two hours, seek immediate medical attention.
Where can I get Viagra?
Viagra can be obtained from your GP or local chemist, both of whom will need to assess your clinical need. Due to a recent change in law, chemists can now provide Viagra without a prescription from a doctor. While it can be purchased online, it’s advisable to get it in person due to the prevalence of counterfeit drugs.
Is Viagra the only option?
No, Viagra is not the only option. There are several other PDE inhibitors, including tadalafil (Cialis), vardenafil (Levitra), and avanafil (Spedra), which work similarly to Viagra. If Viagra doesn’t work for you, one of these alternatives might.
Dr Nick Knight is a GP. Follow him on Instagram, @Dr.NickKnight.
For more information, read our guides on Viagra, condoms, and understanding if you’re a sex addict.