How does sildenafil work best
Sildenafil, popularly known as Viagra, is a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis, which helps in achieving and maintaining an erection during sexual stimulation. Sildenafil has been proven to be an effective and safe treatment for ED since its introduction in 1998. However, to achieve optimal results with sildenafil, it is essential to understand how it works best.
How Sildenafil Works
Sildenafil belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors. PDE5 is an enzyme that breaks down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), a messenger molecule responsible for relaxing the smooth muscles in the penis and increasing blood flow. When PDE5 breaks down cGMP, the blood vessels in the penis constrict, reducing blood flow, and preventing an erection.
Sildenafil works by inhibiting the actions of PDE5, which leads to increased levels of cGMP in the penis. This causes the smooth muscles in the penis to relax, allowing more blood to flow into the penis during sexual stimulation. The increased blood flow leads to a firm and sustained erection, which can last up to four hours.
How to Take Sildenafil
Sildenafil is available in tablet form, and it is usually taken orally about 30 minutes before sexual activity. The recommended starting dose is 50mg, but this can be adjusted depending on individual needs and response.
It is essential to take sildenafil exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not take more than one tablet in a 24-hour period or combine sildenafil with other medications used to treat ED.
Factors that Affect How Sildenafil Works
Several factors can affect how sildenafil works in the body, including:
1. Food and Alcohol
Taking sildenafil with a high-fat meal can delay its absorption into the bloodstream, causing it to take longer to work. It is, therefore, recommended to take sildenafil on an empty stomach or with a low-fat meal. Similarly, alcohol consumption can also affect how sildenafil works by reducing blood flow to the penis and making it harder to achieve an erection.
2. Age
As men age, their metabolism slows down, which can affect how sildenafil is processed in the body. Older men may require lower doses of sildenafil or may take longer to metabolize the drug, leading to a prolonged duration of action.
3. Underlying Medical Conditions
Underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease can affect how sildenafil works in the body. These conditions can reduce blood flow to the penis, making it harder to achieve an erection. They can also affect how sildenafil is metabolized in the body, leading to a prolonged duration of action or increased side effects.
4. Medications
Certain medications such as nitrates used to treat chest pain can interact with sildenafil and cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. It is essential to inform your healthcare provider of any medications you are taking before starting sildenafil.
Side Effects of Sildenafil
Sildenafil is generally well-tolerated by most men, but like any medication, it can cause side effects. Some common side effects include headaches, flushing, nasal congestion, and indigestion. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own within a few hours.
Rarely, sildenafil can cause more severe side effects such as sudden loss of vision or hearing, an erection that lasts more than four hours (priapism), or a severe allergic reaction. If you experience any of these side effects, seek medical attention immediately.
How Does Sildenafil Work Best
Sildenafil is an effective and safe treatment for erectile dysfunction when taken as prescribed by a healthcare provider. To achieve optimal results with sildenafil, it is essential to take it on an empty stomach or with a low-fat meal and avoid combining it with alcohol or other medications used to treat ED. It is also crucial to inform your healthcare provider of any underlying medical conditions or medications you are taking before starting sildenafil.