Viagra (Sildenafil)

Viagra is a proven prescription medication designed to help men overcome erectile dysfunction by improving blood flow and supporting natural arousal. The action of Sildenafil focuses on inhibiting PDE5, a process that enhances vascular function and facilitates the physiological response needed for sexual activity. The drug has been prescribed over 65 million times globally, highlighting its widespread use and recognition as a leading treatment for ED. In Canada, it is manufactured by several companies, including Mylan, Pharmaris, and Auro, and is available at a price several times lower than in the US, making it a highly sought-after option for Americans. Since the expiration of its patent in 2017, it’s also available as a generic medication under the name Sildenafil, providing a more affordable alternative for patients.

What is Erectile Dysfunction and its Main Triggers?

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a prevalent and distressing male health problem. The most telling signs and symptoms of this condition are difficulty developing a firm enough erection for sex and keeping the erection firm throughout intercourse. However, in some men, it can also manifest through reduced sexual desire, especially when depression is to blame. Erectile dysfunction can be triggered by both physical and psychological factors, including the following:

• Age: the risk of ED tends to increase with advancing age, with 77.5% of men aged 75 and older being affected by this condition.
• Lifestyle choices: unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking, alcohol consumption, poor diet, and lack of sleep can contribute to erectile dysfunction by hurting cardiovascular health and blood flow – crucial components of a healthy erection.
• Preexisting health issues: ED is more common in men diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, both of which damage blood vessels and nerves, limiting the body’s ability to respond effectively to sexual arousal.
• Psychological problems: stress, anxiety, and depression can all disrupt the brain’s communication with the body, leading to difficulties in initiating erections.

These often work together, making the diagnosis and treatment more complicated. Through a comprehensive medical assessment, a qualified physician can find out the underlying reasons behind ED and suggest the most suitable treatment strategy that, apart from PDE5 inhibitors like Viagra, can also involve lifestyle changes, psychological counseling, or other therapies to improve the condition.

When is Viagra Prescribed?

Talking to a doctor before starting Viagra can provide a skilled evaluation of the patient’s health, help uncover true ED causes, and determine if the medicine is a suitable treatment option for a specific individual, considering risks, contraindications, and other possible issues. Taking Viagra recreationally or without proper medical guidance is strictly unadvised, as it can dangerously interact with certain drugs and may have adverse effects in some cases.

• Generic of Viagra is just a bare, unaltered version of Sildenafil (or Sildenafil Citrate). The effects are almost identical, and the quality is on par. It’s not like generics are made in basements or garages by illegal immigrants. No, they are crafted by top-tier pharmaceutical companies.
• In a Canadian pharmacy, the cost of Viagra varies from $40 for 8 tablets to $130 for 100 tablets. It’s better to buy more of them rather than fewer. It stands in stark contrast to the regular Pfizer-made Viagra, which costs $170 for 8 tablets (in Canada). There is also a question of dosage. Tablets come in 25mg, 50mg and 100mg.

What is the Composition and Mechanism of Action?

Viagra contains Sildenafil citrate, which is a drug in the class of vasoactive agents called phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors). The drugs in this pharmacological group promote relaxation of the smooth muscles in the penile bodies (corpora cavernosa and corpus spongiousum). This is achieved thanks to selective inhibition of PDE5 and the release of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which is a precursor of nitric oxide (NO). Both cGMP and NO are associated with improved blood flow, which means improved erectile function when it is restored in the genitals. Since the enzyme PDE5 is predominantly found in the penis, the effect of the drug is almost limited to the pelvic area. Sildenafil restores the natural erectile mechanism, which however needs to be triggered by actual sexual stimulation. In the absence of a sexual context, the drug will not trigger an erection, since it does not affect a person’s libido.

Another benefit of Sildenafil in the composition of Viagra is that it shortens down the period required for sexual recharge (refractory time), and somewhat dampens the sensitivity of the glans. This does not prevent the man from enjoying the sensations brought by sexual intercourse, but it helps to last longer during the activity. Sildenafil can thus help with the problem of premature ejaculation, which is also often linked to ED and performance anxiety.

What Happens if You Take 100mg or More of Sildenafil at Once?

Taking 100mg of Sildenafil, the maximum recommended dose, is generally safe when prescribed. However, exceeding this amount significantly raises the risk of side effects without improving its effectiveness. Common side effects like headaches, flushing, dizziness, and nasal congestion can become more severe at higher doses. Visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or changes in color perception, may also be more intense and last longer.

One of the most serious risks of taking more than 100mg is priapism – a prolonged and painful erection lasting over four hours. While rare, this condition becomes more likely with higher doses and can lead to permanent damage if not treated immediately.

Exceeding the recommended dose can also strain the cardiovascular system. Sildenafil lowers blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels, but at excessive doses, this effect can cause sudden drops in blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, or chest pain. These risks are particularly concerning for individuals with heart conditions or those taking medications like nitrates. Importantly, taking more than 100mg does not increase effectiveness.

Which Telemedicine Services in Canada Offer Sildenafil?

These services allow patients to consult with licensed healthcare professionals online and obtain a prescription without visiting a clinic in person. Below are some of the leading options available:

1. Maple. Maple is a popular telemedicine service offering virtual consultations across Canada. Patients can discuss ED concerns with a doctor, and if deemed appropriate, receive a prescription for Sildenafil. Maple also partners with local pharmacies to deliver medications directly to your doorstep.
2. PocketPills. PocketPills combines telemedicine with an online service. After consulting with a healthcare provider, patients can order Sildenafil and have it delivered to their homes. This platform is widely available in Canada, providing competitive pricing for this medication.
3. MediSure. MediSure connects patients with healthcare providers for virtual assessments. After reviewing the patient’s medical history, the physician may prescribe Sildenafil if suitable, ensuring a safe and effective treatment plan.

How Long Does the Effect Last?

The effects of Sildenafil typically last around 4 to 6 hours, but this can vary depending on factors like your metabolism, the dose taken, and the specific situation. Things like age, overall health, and other medications you might be using can also play a role. For example, older men or those with liver or kidney conditions may notice the effects lasting longer because the drug clears more slowly from their systems.

It might be possible to enhance the drug’s efficacy by ensuring the patient is physically and emotionally relaxed, taking the medication on an empty stomach, and avoiding fatty meals, as high-fat foods can delay absorption. Additionally, abstaining from alcohol or limiting its intake can prevent interference with Sildenafil’s effectiveness.

First-time users should know that Viagra doesn’t create an erection on its own. It works by enhancing your body’s natural ability to achieve and maintain an erection when you’re sexually aroused. This means that sexual stimulation is still necessary for the medication to be effective.

While the primary use of Sildenafil is to treat erectile dysfunction, ongoing research suggests it might offer other benefits, such as improving blood flow in different parts of the body. However, these potential secondary effects are not fully understood and shouldn’t replace any treatments prescribed for other health conditions.

When Might Sildenafil Not Work as Expected?

There are specific circumstances where the medication may not work as intended. Knowing these factors can help prevent issues when using Sildenafil.

• Lack of Sexual Stimulation. Sildenafil requires arousal to work and will not produce an erection on its own.
• Timing and Food. A heavy or high-fat meal can delay its effects. For optimal results, take it 30-60 minutes before activity on an empty stomach.
• Health Conditions. Nerve damage from diabetes or prostate surgery, low testosterone, or advanced cardiovascular disease can reduce its efficacy.
• Medication Interactions. Drugs like nitrates, alpha-blockers, certain antibiotics, or antifungals may weaken its effects or cause side effects.
• Mental Health. Anxiety, stress, or depression can interfere with its effectiveness, even if blood flow is adequate.

What are the Potential Side Effects and Precautions?

Common side effects

The most reported side effects are mild and don’t last long. These include headaches, experienced by about 16% of users, along with facial flushing (10-12%) and nasal congestion (4-6%). Dizziness and stomach discomfort, such as indigestion, are also fairly typical. These reactions occur because Sildenafil temporarily increases blood flow throughout the body, including areas outside of its intended purpose.

Less common side effects

Some people notice less frequent issues like changes in vision. Around 2-3% of users report seeing a blue tint, blurred vision, or heightened sensitivity to light. These effects are tied to Sildenafil’s interaction with enzymes in the retina. Muscle aches, back pain, or minor swelling in the hands or feet are also possible but happen in fewer than 2% of users. These tend to appear more often with higher doses, such as the 100 mg tablet.

Rare but serious side effects

Although rare, serious side effects can happen. Priapism, which is a prolonged and painful erection lasting more than four hours, is one of the most serious risks. This condition is uncommon, affecting less than 0.1% of users, but it requires urgent medical attention to prevent lasting damage. Some users may experience heart-related issues, like a sudden drop in blood pressure, chest pain, or irregular heartbeats. These side effects are more likely in people with pre-existing heart conditions or those taking nitrates or similar medications.

Who is at higher risk?

Certain groups face a higher likelihood of side effects. This includes individuals with severe heart disease, very low blood pressure, or liver or kidney problems. Older adults might also process the drug more slowly, which can prolong its effects and increase the chance of adverse reactions.

Important precautions

Before starting Sildenafil, inform your healthcare provider of your full medical history and any current medications. This drug can have severe interactions with nitrates, often used for heart conditions, leading to dangerously low blood pressure levels. Combining Sildenafil with alpha-blockers, blood pressure medications, antifungals, and certain antibiotics may also cause harmful reactions.

Not all patients are candidates for Sildenafil. Men with significant cardiovascular conditions, recent stroke, severe liver or kidney disease, or blood pressure irregularities should typically avoid this medication. Another critical point: those with rare eye disorders, like retinitis pigmentosa, should not take Sildenafil due to the risk of exacerbating visual issues.

Also, drinking alcohol while using Sildenafil increases the risk of adverse reactions, particularly dizziness and fainting. Limit alcohol intake to prevent unwanted effects.

Disclaimer

The information provided on the website is created using the best practices and efforts to provide comprehensive and accurate descriptions, but errors and omissions may occur. This information should not be used for self-diagnosing or drawing any conclusions about users’ health; nor should it be used to disregard or deviate from the recommendations given by medical professionals; licensed healthcare practitioners should be consulted to this end.

The materials and comments given on this website should never be regarded as a basis for interpretation, acting on or using as grounds for self-administration of any drugs. Users are reminded of the importance of seeking timely professional help for matters concerning diagnosing, healthcare advising and drug prescription.

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