Viagra Information
What is Viagra?
ViagraŽ 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 ViagraŽ work?
ViagraŽ is dispensed as a pill
and ingested orally. Approximately 30-60 minutes later the drug
is absorbed in the bloodstream. ViagraŽ 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. ViagraŽ 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. ViagraŽ should
not be taken more than once per any 24-hour period and doses should
not exceed 100mg. The half-life of ViagraŽ, the time the drug remains
effective after ingestion, is approximately four hours.
What clinical studies have been
done?
ViagraŽ 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.
ViagraŽ 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 ViagraŽ verses 12% on a placebo medication.
How much time must surpass before
ViagraŽ 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 ViagraŽ 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 ViagraŽ?
ViagraŽ is naturally eliminated
from your body in a few hours.
What are the side effects of
ViagraŽ?
- The side effects of ViagraŽ 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 ViagraŽ?
Men who are taking medicines
that contain nitrates (Nitroglycerin) of any kind must never use
ViagraŽ. Patients should not take ViagraŽ 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,
ViagraŽ should not be used in men where sexual activity is inadvisable
because of their underlying cardiovascular status. Several medications
are known to interact with ViagraŽ. 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 ViagraŽ 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 ViagraŽ with other
medications?
Yes, it is generally safe to
use ViagraŽ while on other medications, however some medicines may
potentiate the effects of ViagraŽ. Individuals should always consult
with their healthcare provider prior to taking any medication. Note
ViagraŽ does have one absolute contraindication; individuals who
are taking medication-containing nitrate (even intermittently) should
not take ViagraŽ.
Why is ViagraŽ absolutely contraindicated
in individuals who are currently taking medications containing nitrates?
ViagraŽ 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 ViagraŽ. 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 ViagraŽ over the counter?
No, ViagraŽ should only be taken
by prescription from a licensed physician. FDA regulations do not
permit ViagraŽ to be taken without prescription. ORDER NOW for a ViagraŽ prescription. A Licensed Physician
will review your medical history and patient profile. If approved
for a ViagraŽ prescription, we will have your order shipped discretely
to your home or office.
For what types of ED is ViagraŽ
proving to be especially effective?
ViagraŽ is showing optimal results
in individuals who experience ED secondary to high levels of anxiety
(performance anxiety) and individuals with mild ED.
Is ViagraŽ 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 ViagraŽ 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'sŽ
safety and effectiveness.
Is there a potential for ViagraŽ
to be used in the treatment of ED in women?
There are currently several medical
research centers that are studying whether ViagraŽ 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
ViagraŽ to their female patients, it is important to note, the FDA
has not approved the medication for the treatment of ED in women.
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