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Frequently
Asked Questions Concerning Viagra� Including Viagra Side Effects
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What
is Viagra®?
Viagra®
is the first significant oral medication for the
treatment of Erectile Dysfunction (ED). The medicine was originally
developed as a cardiovascular medicine designed to improve blood flow
in the vessels of the heart. However, during initial studies
the medication was found to have a profound side effect. Individuals
began to report a remarkable difference in their ability to achieve
and maintain an erection. Further studies were completed and
on March 27, 1998, the medication was approved by the FDA for the
treatment of (ED).
How
does Viagra® work?
Viagra®
is dispensed as a pill and ingested orally. Approximately 30-60
minutes later the drug is absorbed in the bloodstream. Viagra®
then functions as an inhibitor to an enzyme called phosphodiesterase
type (PDE5) which is found primarily in the penis. By inhibiting
PDE5, smooth muscle in the penis remains relaxed for a longer period.
This allows for increased blood flow into the cavernous tissue of
the penis thereby generating an erection. Viagra® is unique
in that it increases a natural occurring process, therefore, only
through sexual stimulation will an erection occur.
What
is the appropriate dose?
The
standard dose is 50mg one hour prior to sexual activity. However,
if you are older than age 65 or have a serious kidney or liver disease
some physicians will recommend starting with the minimal dose of 25mg.
Viagra® should not be taken more than once per any 24-hour period
and doses should not exceed 100mg. The half-life of Viagra®,
the time the drug remains effective after ingestion, is approximately
four hours.
What
clinical studies have been done?
Viagra®
was administered to more than 3000 patients (age 19-87 years) with
(ED) of various etiologies (organic, psychogenic or mixed) with a
mean duration of 5 years. Viagra® demonstrated statistically
significant improvement as compared to a placebo in all studies.
In one particular study concerning the frequency of successful penetration
during sexual activity and maintaining erection after penetration,
83% of these patients reported an improved erection on Viagra®
verses 12% on a placebo medication.
How
much time must surpass before Viagra® is effective?
Viagra
is rapidly absorbed. Maximum observed plasma concentrations
are reached within 30 to 120 minutes (median time 60 minutes) of oral
dosing on an empty stomach. Note: when Viagra® is taken
with a high fat content meal, the rate of effectiveness can be significantly
diminished.
What
happens if there is no sexual stimulation following the ingestion
of Viagra®?
Viagra®
is naturally eliminated from your body in a few hours.
What
are the side effects of Viagra®?
-
The
side effects of Viagra® are relatively few and if they do
occur, they are usually short lived. However, some patients
have reported the following side effects:
-
Congestion
-
Diarrhea
-
Facial
Flushing
-
Headaches
-
Urinary
Tract Infections
-
Visual
Changes (mild and temporary changes in blue/green colors or increased
sensitivity to light)
What
are precautions/warnings concerning Viagra®?
Men
who are taking medicines that contain nitrates (Nitroglycerin) of
any kind must never use Viagra®. Patients should not take
Viagra® even if you only take nitroglycerin medication occasionally.
(Please see list of nitrates) There is also a potential for
cardiac risk during sexual activity in patients with preexisting cardiovascular
disease. Therefore, Viagra® should not be used in men where
sexual activity is inadvisable because of their underlying cardiovascular
status. Several medications are known to interact with Viagra®.
Therefore, one should inform their physician concerning all medications
they are taking, including those medications acquired by a prescription
as well as over the counter medicines. The use of Viagra®
offers no protection against sexually transmitted diseases, including
HIV. Patients should continue to use protective measures necessary
to guard against these diseases. In case of an overdose, call
your physician immediately.
Can
I use Viagra® with other medications?
Yes,
it is generally safe to use Viagra® while on other medications,
however some medicines may potentiate the effects of Viagra®.
Individuals should always consult with their healthcare provider prior
to taking any medication. Note Viagra® does have one absolute
contraindication; individuals who are taking medication-containing
nitrate (even intermittently) should not take Viagra®.
Why
is Viagra® absolutely contraindicated in individuals who are currently
taking medications containing nitrates?
Viagra®
has been shown to potentiate the hypotensive effects of nitrates to
life threatening levels. Therefore, individuals who are currently
using nitrates in any form even intermittently should not take Viagra®.
Nitrates are available in many medications; sprays, ointments, skin
patches, pastes and tablets dissolved in the mouth. Nitrates
are also found in illicit drugs such as amyl nitrate or nitrite "Poppers".
If you are unsure if you are currently taking nitrates please value
your health and consult with your local physician or pharmacist.
Can
I get Viagra® over the counter?
No,
Viagra® should only be taken by prescription from a licensed physician.
FDA regulations do not permit Viagra® to be taken without prescription.
CLICK
HERE
for a consultation for a Viagra® prescription. A Licensed
Physician will review your medical history and patient profile.
If approved for a Viagra® prescription, we will have your order
shipped discretely to your home or office.
For
what types of ED is Viagra® proving to be especially effective?
Viagra®
is showing optimal results in individuals who experience ED secondary
to high levels of anxiety (performance anxiety) and individuals with
mild ED.
Is
Viagra® less effective in treating ED that is secondary to certain
underlying medical conditions?
This
question is somewhat difficult to answer right now. More data
is expected in the near future. Some initial data suggests that
men, who have undergone radical prostatectomy (surgical removal of
their prostate), using nerve-sparing procedures, are not achieving
the same positive results with Viagra.
Can
Viagra® be combined with other treatments for erectile dysfunction?
The
use of such combined treatments is not recommended, since no studies
have been done to access Viagra's® safety and effectiveness.
Is
there a potential for Viagra® to be used in the treatment of ED
in women?
There
are currently several medical research centers that are studying whether
Viagra® is a viable oral therapy for woman with ED. The
problem is, secondary to anatomy, we know less concerning female ED
than male ED. Historically, research has focused on male ED.
Until we have a better understanding of the physiological processes
causing Ed in women are ability to treat the condition is limited.
Although some physicians are prescribing Viagra® to their female
patients, it is important to note, the FDA has not approved the medication
for the treatment of ED in women.
Viagra®
is a prescription medicine used to treat erectile dysfunction.
Only a physician should decide if it is appropriate for you.
These pages are only a summary. If you have further questions
or would like more information about Viagra®, consult you personal
physician or pharmacist. Information can also be obtained by
visiting Pfizer @ www.viagra.com.
or call 1-888-4VIAGRA.