Viagra® ( sildenafil ) tablets

Viagra is a prescription medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction (also called impotence) in men. It contains sildenafil citrate, a PDE5 inhibitor that helps improve blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal. Viagra is often referred to as the “blue pill” due to its colour.

Viagra only works if you are sexually stimulated. It does not increase libido.

Viagra works by increasing blood flow to the penis when you are aroused. It relaxes the blood vessels in the penis, allowing for a firmer, longer-lasting erection.

It begins working in about 30 to 60 minutes. Effects typically last between 4 to 6 hours.

Viagra is effective in approximately 83 percent of men with erectile dysfunction.

• The standard starting dose is 50 mg taken 30 to 60 minutes before sexual activity
• Do not take more than one tablet in 24 hours
• Works best on an empty stomach
• Avoid alcohol and high-fat meals, which may delay or reduce effectiveness

If 50 mg is too strong, reduce to 25 mg. If it is not effective, your doctor may recommend increasing to 100 mg. Do not adjust your dose without medical guidance.

Viagra is for adult men with erectile dysfunction. It is not suitable for use by women or individuals under 18.

You should not use Viagra if you:

• Have a penile deformity or Peyronie’s disease
• Have had a recent heart attack or stroke
• Have severe heart or liver disease
• Have low blood pressure or unstable angina
• Have rare inherited eye conditions (e.g. retinitis pigmentosa) or a history of sudden vision loss
• Take nitrates (for chest pain), nitric oxide donors (e.g. amyl nitrite), or riociguat

Do not take Viagra with other erectile dysfunction treatments or recreational drugs such as “poppers.” You should also avoid alcohol, especially in large quantities, as it can increase the risk of side effects and reduce effectiveness.

Viagra can interact with:

• Nitrates (for heart conditions)
• Alpha-blockers (for high blood pressure or prostate issues)
• Protease inhibitors (used for HIV)

If you are on any of these medications, consult a doctor before taking Viagra.

Viagra is generally well tolerated, but side effects can occur. Always read the patient leaflet for full details.

Common side effects include:

• Headache
• Facial flushing
• Nasal congestion or runny nose
• Dizziness
• Indigestion
• Visual disturbances (e.g., blurred vision or colour tinge)

Serious but rare side effects:

• Prolonged erection lasting over 4 hours (priapism)
• Sudden vision or hearing loss
• Chest pain, allergic reaction, or seizures

Seek immediate medical help if you experience any of the serious side effects listed above.

• Men over 65 should usually start at 25 mg
• Those with kidney or liver disease may need lower doses
• Obesity, stress, and alcohol can affect Viagra’s effectiveness
• Psychological causes of erectile dysfunction may benefit from therapy alongside medication