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Viagra Sildenafil (Pfizer Branded)
Viagra, sildenafil citrate, is one of the oral erectile dysfunction treatments prescribed by our doctor, assuming it is appropriate for the patient.
We want our patients to be informed before deciding which treatment is right for them so on this page you will find links to questions often asked about Viagra. If you have a question that isn't covered here, feel free to contact our customer support, who will be able to advise on how you can contact our doctor.
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VIAGRA FAQ'S
Listed below are questions and answers put together by the Firstmed doctor, designed to provide guidance regarding the treatments currently available from Firstmed. If there is a question you would like to put to our doctor that is not covered below, please feel free to email him at doctor@firstmed.co.uk .
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What is Viagra (sildenafil citrate)?What are the alternative treatments for impotence?
Is there a generic alternative to Pfizer Viagra?
How does it work?
When should I take it?
How well does it work?
What is the correct dosage?
What are Viagra's side effects?
Is there any reason why I shouldn’t take it?
What is Viagra sildenafil citrate?
Pfizer Viagra is one of the oral treatments for impotence (male erectile dysfunction) currently available by prescription in the UK. It is a diamond-shaped blue pill containing the active ingredient sildenafil. It works by increasing the blood flow to the penis. It is not an aphrodisiac and will only work in response to sexual stimulation.
backWhat are the alternative treatments for impotence?
Other prescription treatments available in tablet form include Cialis and Levitra as well as licensed generic versions of Viagra. In their feedback some of our patients have reported Levitra has the least side effects and those who try it, like it and seem to stick with it. Cialis is often the first choice for new patients because its “window” of effectiveness is up to 36 hours, considerably longer than other treatments. This can mean that there is less pressure to “time” your sexual activity and therefore can lead to a more relaxed and spontaneous experience. However, the side effects are said to be greater possibly because the active ingredient remains longer in the body. Genuine Viagra is said to produce the strongest erections but again there can sometimes be side-effects.
If one treatment does not work, the doctor may advise you to try one of the others to see if it proves more suitable.
Is there a generic alternative?
Legal generic versions of Viagra have been available for a few years, since Pfizer's patent on Viagra expired.
All the treatments that we supply are produced by licensed manifacturers, so the quality of the generic medication, as well as the original brand, can be assured. We provide you with the name of our prescribing doctor and pharmacy when the order is completed.
How does it work?
Viagra functions by blocking an enzyme called phosphodiesterase (PDE5) which is found primarily in the penis. By inhibiting PDE5, the blood vessels in the penis remain relaxed for a longer period allowing for increased blood flow. It also has the effect of “trapping” the blood in the penis helping to produce longer-lasting erections. Viagra, Cialis and Levitra only work in response to sexual stimulation.
When should I take it?
One hour prior to sexual activity. The treatment should not be taken more than once in any 24-hour period. The half-life i.e. the time the drug remains effective after ingestion, is approximately four hours.
How well does it work?
It can be extremely effective. In all studies prior to market approval, Pfizer Viagra demonstrated significant improvement as compared to a placebo (dummy tablets). It has been shown to work in 78% of men regardless of cause. In the case of men suffering from hypertension, it works in 70% of patients and for those being treated for diabetes, the success rate is 57%.
What is the correct dosage?
Usually patients are advised to try the standard dose of 50mg first. The doctor will always advise if the dose is inappropriate for a patient, however.
What are Viagra's side effects?
Viagra's side effects are not usually particularly great or frequent but you should be aware of them. If they do occur, they are usually short lived. Some of the following side effects have been reported:
- Congestion
- Diarrhea
- Facial Flushing
- Headaches
- Urinary Tract Infections
- Bluish vision
Are there any reasons why I shouldn’t take it?
Impotence (male erectile dysfunction) and cardiovascular diseases have common risk factors, therefore many of the patients who might benefit from using Viagra also have cardiovascular diseases. A review of the evidence some years ago concluded that overall the frequency of cardiovascular side effects was low and similar to that seen with placebo (dummy tablets). However, it must not be used in patients who need to take nitrate medications and should be used with care in patients who get angina (heart pain) on exercise. It can adversely interact with some medications, including those used to treat HIV. For further advice, please email our doctor at doctor@firstmed.co.uk.