Sildenafil Erectile dysfunction or ED has been one of the major sexual health problems that some men will most likely struggle with, especially as they age. According to the Cleveland Clinic in 2019, out of 10 men, 1 of them is expected to experience erectile dysfunction in his lifetime. It can be caused by several different factors –side effects from medications and drugs or caused by diseases like diabetes, heart problems. These factors are often heightened with old age that is why older men are more susceptible to ED.
According to statistics, the rate of men that are struggling with erectile dysfunction in every generation is increasing as the years pass by. However, several developments have been made during these recent years that can finally help men struggling with this disorder, especially since most of them see their sexual activity as an important part of their life.
Most common and most accessible type of treatment for ED is through prescription drugs. There are several drugs out there, however, one of the most popular is sildenafil.
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So, What is Sildenafil?
Sildenafil is one common type of ED medication. It is also known for its brand name called Viagra. It is probably the most popular brand out of all the drugs that treat erectile dysfunction. Another brand name of sildenafil and Revatio is given to adults struggling with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension or PAH.
Erectile dysfunction medication like sildenafil works by increasing the blood flow in the penis which then results in an erection. It is considered as a member of the class called phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors. Its efficacy lasts up to 4 hours, which is quite common to most ED drugs. Sildenafil should be taken at least an hour before sexual intercourse.
Recommended Dosage
Sildenafil usually comes as a tablet that is taken orally, however, it can also be bought in a form of a liquid that is injected in the veins. It is recommended to take 50mg if you are taking oral drugs. Dosages can vary depending on your health condition and tolerance.
Some doctors can recommend a higher dosage. This type of medication is strictly taken once every 24 hours — more than that can cause complications. Remember to consult your medical provider first before purchasing sildenafil and always follow their prescription.
Side Effects
Side effects after taking sildenafil are usually because of reactions due to prior health conditions. This is why it is important to ask your doctor first if you are suitable for taking this drug. These side effects vary from mild to severe. There are some reported cases of patients who have experienced headaches, body aches, nosebleed, chest pains, rashes, etc.
Restrictions and Interactions
As we mentioned earlier, the sildenafil should only be taken once a day to avoid any complications. There are still no studies that have proven the effects of sildenafil on women, so it still is not recommended for them to take it. This is also the case with children. However, due to recent developments on the effects of sildenafil as medication for PAH, some doctors prescribe it to kids who have been struggling with this type of condition.
Sildenafil has interactions with some medications. It is restricted to take it if you are under medications that contain nitrates like drugs for chest pain. It should also not be taken with other drugs like amoxicillin, metoprolol, among others.
If you are looking into taking sildenafil as a treatment for erectile dysfunction, buying viagra online can be more convenient compared to buying over the counter. Just make sure to ask your doctor first for a prescription for you to assure your safety.