Description
What is Viagra and what is it used for?
Viagra is a branded medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in adult men. Erectile dysfunction is a condition where it is difficult to achieve or maintain an erection firm enough for sexual activity.
Viagra contains the active ingredient sildenafil, which helps improve blood flow to the penis during sexual arousal. Sexual stimulation is required for Viagra to work — it does not cause an erection by itself.
How Viagra works
Viagra works by relaxing the blood vessels in the penis, allowing increased blood flow when you are sexually stimulated. This helps support a natural erection response.
When to take Viagra
Viagra is usually taken around 30–60 minutes before sexual activity. For some men it may work sooner, while large or fatty meals may delay its onset.
How to take Viagra
- Take one tablet with water when needed.
- Do not take more than one dose in 24 hours.
- Avoid excessive alcohol, as this can reduce effectiveness.
- If Viagra does not work on the first occasion, it may still be effective on future attempts.
How long does Viagra last?
Viagra can remain effective for up to 4 hours. This does not mean you will have a continuous erection, but that you may find it easier to achieve one during this time with sexual stimulation.
Important safety information
- Do not take Viagra if you use nitrate medicines (commonly prescribed for chest pain) or recreational “poppers”, as this can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
- Seek urgent medical attention if you experience chest pain, sudden vision loss, or an erection lasting longer than 4 hours.
- Viagra may not be suitable if you have certain heart conditions, low blood pressure, or have recently had a heart attack or stroke.
Side effects of Viagra
Most men tolerate Viagra well. Side effects are usually mild and temporary.
Very common
- Headache
Common
- Dizziness
- Facial flushing
- Blocked or runny nose
- Indigestion or nausea
- Blurred vision or visual disturbances
If side effects are severe, persistent, or concerning, stop taking Viagra and seek medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is Viagra available without a prescription?
Prescription-strength Viagra requires approval from a clinician. A suitability assessment ensures the medication is safe and appropriate for you.
Is Viagra better than generic sildenafil?
Viagra and generic sildenafil contain the same active ingredient and work in the same way. The main difference is branding and price.
Can Viagra be taken every day?
Viagra is designed for use when needed. It should not be taken more than once in a 24-hour period unless advised by a healthcare professional.
What if Viagra does not work for me?
If Viagra is not effective after several attempts, a different dose or alternative ED treatment may be more suitable. A clinician can help determine the best option.
Always read the patient information leaflet before use.
Side Effects
Side Effects of Using Viagra
Viagra has been used by millions of men worldwide for many years and is widely recognised as a safe and effective treatment for erectile dysfunction. Most men do not experience any side effects. However, as with all medicines, some users may experience side effects, which are usually mild and temporary. Serious side effects are rare and occur in fewer than 1% of people.
Possible side effects include:
Common side effects
Headache
Dizziness
Stuffy or runny nose
Indigestion or upset stomach
Nausea
Uncommon side effects
Feeling unusually tired
Fever
Skin rash
Diarrhoea
Shortness of breath
Rare side effects
High or low blood pressure
Irregular heartbeat
Nosebleeds
Fainting
If side effects are severe, persistent, or cause concern, you should stop taking Viagra and seek medical advice.
When Viagra Should Not Be Used
You should not take Viagra if you:
Use other erectile dysfunction medicines, including PDE5 inhibitors
Take nitrate medicines (commonly prescribed for heart conditions), alpha blockers, or recreational drugs known as “poppers”
Are allergic to sildenafil or any of the ingredients in Viagra
Always inform your pharmacist or healthcare professional about any medical conditions or medicines you are taking before using Viagra.
