Why is Viagra so popular?

With the breakthrough arrival as a cure for erectile dysfunction in 1998, Viagra was the first oral ED pill that has changed the lives of many men. Since then, it has completed 20 successful years in the market for erectile dysfunction medicines. Although a number of other ED pills have been introduced after Viagra, this ED pill has remained the biggest selling medication of all times.

But what is the reason behind its popularity?

The popularity of Viagra is mainly due to its ability to have produced successful erections in 65-75% of impotent men who took the right dosage. Also, it is an oral prescription medication that requires no other invasive medical procedures like surgeries or use of external devices.

Let us find out how this medication works that have made it so popular.

Viagra’s mechanism as a PDE5 inhibitor:

Sildenafil, the active ingredient in this medication, is a PDE5 inhibitor which facilitates the increase of blood flow to the penile nerve.

In men with erectile dysfunction, there is an enzyme called PDE5 (Phosphodiesterase type 5), which can degrade the production of an important chemical called cGMP (cyclic guanosine monophosphate).

In the presence of sexual stimulation, nitric oxide is released and Viagra inhibits the PDE5 enzyme, facilitating the release of cGMP into the blood.

This relaxes the muscles around the blood vessels and causes them to expand. The blood can easily flow into the corpus cavernosum- the erectile tissue in the penis. This is how an erection can be obtained with the help of Viagra.

Note that, this medication does not induce any sort of sexual stimulation. It instead works only when there is a sexual stimulation present. Also, it does not protect one from any sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

How to take Viagra for safe results?

The effective dose of this PDE5 inhibitor depends to a great extent on the age, health condition and tolerance of the person. Hence, one should adhere to the necessary instructions laid down by one’s doctor. You can also find Viagra online from any registered medical store of your choice but make sure that you have a prior approval from your doctor.

Some important guidelines can be as follows-

•    The ideal dose for this medication is 50 mg for most men.

•    The maximum recommended dose is 100 mg which you can take only if the doctor approves.

•    Its effects start showing within 30 minutes after its intake.

•    You can take this pill anywhere between 1 to 4 hours before any physical intercourse.

•    This medication is said to work the best when taken without food. This condition may vary depending on your doctor’s prescription.

•    Do not take this pill more than once per day. It is meant for one-time use only in a single day.

•    If you are taking it daily, do not skip doses. If you miss a dose, do not try to fill it by taking twice the next day.

•    Also, do not overdose on this medication as it is meant for a short-term only. Prolonged use of Viagra can lead to increased tolerance and also might lead to severe health consequences.

Conclusion:

Various research studies have been conducted by Pfizer, the parent company that manufactures and markets this medication. The reports of all the studies have concluded that Viagra has the potential to bring about almost 80% improvement in erections, which is good news for those suffering from erectile dysfunction.

At the same time, make sure to take the necessary precautions before taking Viagra. Its effectiveness may vary from person to person depending on the health condition and responsiveness to the drug.