What Does Viagra Do?

How Viagra works

• Enhances blood flow: Viagra (sildenafil) relaxes blood vessel muscles in the penis, increasing blood flow and allowing erections to occur when sexually aroused
• Inhibits PDE5: As a selective PDE5 inhibitor, Viagra increases levels of cGMP, a chemical that relaxes smooth muscles and promotes vasodilation, explaining how Viagra works
• Requires arousal: What Viagra does not do is act as an aphrodisiac; it needs sexual stimulation to produce an erection
• Nitric oxide interaction: Viagra potentiates the effects of nitric oxide, a natural vasodilator in the body, which is crucial to how Viagra works

Effectiveness and timing of Viagra effects

• High success rate: About 91% of men find Viagra treatment successful for erectile dysfunction, demonstrating what Viagra does effectively
• Onset of action: Viagra effects begin within 30-60 minutes after ingestion
• Duration: What Viagra does lasts for 4-6 hours, with peak effectiveness around 2 hours after taking
• Optimal dosage: Most effective doses are typically 50-100mg, influencing how Viagra works
• Age independence: The effectiveness of what Viagra does is not significantly correlated with age

Side effects of Viagra

• Common side effects: Include headache (25.4%), flushing (30.8%), nasal congestion (18.7%), and heartburn (10.5%) as part of Viagra effects
• Dose-related: Higher doses are associated with increased frequency of side effects, impacting how Viagra works
• Temporary nature: Most side effects of what Viagra does are short-lived and mild
• Rare serious effects: Include priapism, sudden hearing loss, and cardiovascular problems as potential Viagra effects

Usage considerations for Viagra

• Timing: Best taken 1 hour before sexual activity for optimal results, affecting how Viagra works
• Meal impact: The effectiveness of what Viagra does may decrease if taken after a heavy meal
• Alcohol interaction: Large amounts of alcohol can reduce Viagra's effectiveness and alter its effects
• Prescription requirement: Should only be used under a doctor's supervision to ensure proper understanding of what Viagra does

FAQ

What does Viagra do for erectile dysfunction?

Viagra improves blood flow to the penis, helping men with erectile dysfunction achieve and maintain an erection during sexual arousal. It typically takes effect within 30-60 minutes and lasts for 4-6 hours, with a success rate of about 91% in treating erectile dysfunction.

How does Viagra work in the body?

Viagra works by relaxing blood vessel muscles in the penis, increasing blood flow. As a selective PDE5 inhibitor, it increases levels of cGMP, a chemical that relaxes smooth muscles and promotes vasodilation. Viagra also potentiates the effects of nitric oxide, a natural vasodilator in the body.

What are the main effects of Viagra?

The main effects of Viagra include improved ability to achieve and maintain an erection, increased blood flow to the penis, and enhanced sexual performance. These effects typically last for 4-6 hours, with peak effectiveness around 2 hours after taking the medication.

How long does it take for Viagra to work?

Viagra usually begins to work within 30-60 minutes after ingestion. For optimal results, it's best taken 1 hour before sexual activity. However, the onset and duration of effects can vary depending on individual factors and dosage.

What are the common side effects of Viagra?

Common side effects of Viagra include headache (25.4%), flushing (30.8%), nasal congestion (18.7%), and heartburn (10.5%). Most side effects are temporary and mild. Higher doses are associated with increased frequency of side effects. Rare but serious effects can include priapism, sudden hearing loss, and cardiovascular problems.