The ingestion of Viagra can depend on the metabolism of an individual. In some, it might happen too soon, while in others, it might take a little longer. In general, Viagra can take half an hour to begin its action.
Its duration action, also called half life, can last for a few hours. After that, its effects start fading. It might take around 5 to 6 hours to get fully eliminated from the system.
What is Viagra?
Viagra is an FDA-approved drug, used for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) in males. These are branded medicines. They come in the form of pills for oral consumption. These are clinically proven for overcoming erection difficulties.
Sildenafil is the active ingredient of this drug. It is a Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5) inhibitor compound, which improves the erection function.
Viagra effectiveness
The time taken by the pill to kickstart its action is between 30 to 60 minutes. Once it gets completely assimilated in your bloodstream, it begins its action.
According to the Healthline website, Viagra remains in your system for around 5 to 6 hours after intake. The effectiveness of this medicine is influenced by various factors such as health condition, medicine, alcohol, and other interactions.
Moreover, the effective time of Viagra varies according to the dose. A small dose of this medicine may last for a few hours, while a high dose may stay in the system for longer.
How does Viagra work?
Viagra contains Sildenafil, which is a PDE5 inhibitor. It stops the action of PDE enzymes in the penile arteries. PDE5 enzymes suppress the release of a chemical known as nitric oxide and cause blockages in the arteries.
Nitric oxide has a crucial role in the healthy functioning of penile arteries. Its suppression leads to the narrowing of the arteries. However, the Viagra pill stops PDE5 action and triggers the release of nitric oxide.
Nitric oxide relieves the muscle tensions in the arteries and dilates them. The blood pressure in the arteries drops and the blood flow to the penile increases. The function of Viagra is to increase the blood supply to the penile.
When the penile arteries receive adequate blood, the erections will be firmer. To sustain the erections, the arteries trap the blood inside under high pressure. Thus, the person will be able to have a healthy erection function after taking the pill.
Side effects of Viagra
Viagra pills can produce some common side effects such as headache, insomnia, nasal congestion, runny nose, nausea, flushing, blurry vision, back pain, stomachache, dizziness, and diarrhea.
These common side effects can be of mild to moderate degree. They may disappear on their own after some time. In case they do not go away, you should see your doctor.
Apart from these, there is a possibility that some people might develop uncommon side effects. They may include priapism (prolonged painful erections), low blood pressure (hypotension), vision loss in one eye or both, and hearing difficulties in one or both ears.
Uncommon side effects are very rare. However, if they arise, one must seek immediate medical attention.
Viagra usage
- You should use it only when required. The pill should be taken 30 minutes to 1 hour before you have planned for sexual activity.
- Do not use these pills without a prescription. Always take the dose that is recommended by your doctor.
- The pill will not produce erections spontaneously. It will obtain the desired results only in the presence of sexual arousal.
- Do not take more than a single pill a day. It is not considered safe. Follow your doctor’s guidance and the points listed on the information leaflet carefully.
Viagra contraindications
Medications that are listed below may not go well with Viagra. Their interaction can give rise to life-threatening consequences. The drugs one must avoid combining with Viagra include:
- Nitrate medications – These are used for treating heart disease, chest pain or angina, and symptoms of heart failure.
- Alpha-blocker medicines – Used for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension).
- Antibiotic drugs – Used for treating bacterial infections.
- Antifungals – Treats fungal infections.
- HIV protease inhibitor drugs – Used for preventing the progression of HIV.
- AIDS medications
The lowdown
The effectiveness of Viagra medicine remains for as long as 5 to 6 hours or so. Its duration of action may vary from person to person. A low dose of this pill might stay for a few hours, whereas a high dose can stay in the system for longer and continue its action.