Get To Know Viagra Better
Viagra is one of the most popular treatment drugs used for treating erectile dysfunction. It was introduced in the market in the year 1998 and has taken the market by storm. It has helped people by majorly changing their lives. The active ingredient used in this medication is Sildenafil citrate which can be used for treating pulmonary arterial hypertension as well. Scientists in the Great Britain were the first to discover the properties of Viagra which was later marketed by Pfizer, which is a US-based pharmaceutical company. Viagra also goes by another brand name called Revatio.
Viagra majorly aims to inhibit the actions of an enzyme known as cGMP-specific Phosphodiesterase type 5, which is involved in controlling the flow of blood to the penis and other adjacent areas. Viagra is one among the three majorly sold ED medications that include Cialis and Levitra.
History
Viagra was clinically experimented in England originally to find a cure to angina pectoris and hypertension. But the trials of phase I revealed that the drug had little part to play in preventing angina, but greatly affected erections. With more and more investigations taking place after that, the drug was finally launched in the year 1998 for treating erectile dysfunction in the United States of America.
Viagra did rise to fame after its efficiency was proven by thousands of customers. But, it did not affect men who were not suffering from erectile dysfunction. However, some results show that Viagra may have a significant placebo effect. It also did not show any form of benefits for women when consumed.
Dosage
Viagra is available in the form of blue pills, shaped like a diamond. The doses are mainly of three strengths, 25 mg, 50 mg and 100 mg. The prescribed dose varies depending on the tolerance and severity level. Only a single pill must be consumed in a span of 24 hours. The drug is usually consumed an hour before participating in a sexual act.
The other brand name, Revatio is sold in the form of white tablets for curing pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Side Effects
There are several common side effects an individual may develop after the continual use of Viagra. Some of them may include nasal congestion, headaches, dyspepsia, photophobia, and impaired vision. Some customers have also complained about cyanopsia (where everything has a certain amount of blue tinge).
Though it is very rare to experience the severe side effects, Viagra can cause nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, sudden hearing loss, vision impairment, priapism, ventricular arrhythmias, and heart attack.
Drug Interactions
When Viagra interferes with protease inhibitors used by HIV patients, it can result in extreme side effects of greater severity. Such patients should not be prescribed a dose more than 25 mg in strength. A patient who takes alpha blockers must be careful about not consuming Viagra any time before a gap of four hours.
In certain conditions, Viagra has been seen to have affects on jet lag and the capacity of exercise.
