Viagra

Common Name: sildenafil

How does Viagra work?

Sildenafil is used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction (male impotence). It helps to achieve and maintain an erection when sexual stimulation occurs. It does this by allowing a greater flow of blood into the penis when a man taking the medication is sexually aroused. Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Viagra?

The usual recommended dose is 50 mg taken, as needed, approximately one hour before sexual activity. However, the medication may be taken during a time frame between four hours to one-half hour before sexual activity. Based on the effectiveness and side effects of the medication, the dose may be increased to 100 mg or decreased to 25 mg. The maximum recommended dose is 100 mg and it is not recommended to take more than one dose per day. Do not take sildenafil with a high-fat meal as this may reduce the effectiveness of the medication. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones given here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Do not take higher doses of this medication than those prescribed by your doctor.

What form(s) does Viagra come in?

Viagra is available in strengths of 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg. 25 mg: Each blue, round, diamond-shaped tablet, marked "PFIZER" on one side and "VGR 25"on the other side, contains sildenafil citrate 25 mg. 50 mg: Each blue, round, diamond-shaped tablet, marked "PFIZER"on one side and "VGR 50" on the other side, contains sildenafil citrate 50 mg. 100 mg: Each blue, round, diamond-shaped tablet, marked "PFIZER" on one side and "VGR 100" on the other side, contains sildenafil citrate 100 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: anhydrous dibasic calcium phosphate, croscarmellose sodium, FD&C Blue No. 2 Aluminum Lake, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, titanium dioxide, and triacetin.

What should I NOT take with Viagra?

Sildenafil should not be taken by: anyone allergic to sildenafil or any of the ingredients of the medication anyone taking any type of nitrate medication or anyone who uses short-acting nitroglycerin medication (e.g., for relief of chest pain caused by angina) due to the risk of developing very low blood pressure which can be dangerous anyone for whom sexual activity is not advisable

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Viagra?

Prolonged erection: If an erection lasts longer than four hours (a rare occurrence), seek immediate medical assistance. If this condition is not treated quickly, tissue damage and permanent loss of potency could result. Vision problems: A small percentage of people taking this medication have trouble with vision (e.g., blurred vision, light sensitivity, inability to distinguish colour). If this happens, do not drive or operate heavy machinery until this effect goes away. Children: Children should not use sildenafil. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Sildenafil is not approved for use by women.