What is in this Viagra?

• This leaflet provides answers to common questions about Viagra.
• It does not contain all the available information, so consulting a doctor or pharmacist is recommended.
• All medicines have risks and benefits, and a doctor will weigh the benefits against the risks before prescribing Viagra.
• The use of Viagra should only be under strict medical supervision.
• Patients with concerns about taking Viagra should consult their doctor or pharmacist.
• The leaflet should be kept with the medicine in case of future reference.

What Viagra is used for?

• Viagra is used to treat erectile dysfunction (impotence) in men.
• It belongs to a group of medicines known as phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors.
• When sexually excited, Viagra relaxes the blood vessels in the penis, allowing blood to flow and result in an erection.
• Viagra will not work without sexual excitement.
• Viagra is not intended for use in women.
• A doctor’s prescription is necessary to obtain this medicine.

Heading 3: Before you take Viagra

• Nitrate or nitrite medications should not be taken with Viagra.
• Patients who are being treated for angina or other heart conditions with nitrates should not take Viagra.
• A doctor will determine if a patient is fit enough to take Viagra before prescribing the medication.
• Patients with heart or blood vessel problems should not take Viagra.
• Viagra should not be taken if a patient has had a heart attack or stroke in the last six months, has severe liver problems, has unusually high or low blood pressure, or has loss of vision in one or both eyes.
• Viagra should not be taken if a patient has an eye disease called non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION) or retinitis pigmentosa.
• Patients who are allergic to sildenafil or similar medicines or any of the ingredients in the medication should not take Viagra.
• Viagra should not be taken if the packaging is damaged or the expiration date has passed.
• Patients should inform their doctor of any allergies, heart or blood vessel problems, sudden loss of eyesight, or any other medical conditions before taking Viagra.
• Patients should inform their doctor of any other medications they are taking, including those bought without a prescription.

How Does Viagra Work?

Viagra works by increasing the size of blood vessels carrying blood to and from the penis. Sexual stimulation causes the release of nitric oxide, which triggers the production of cGMP, a chemical that regulates blood flow to the penis. When cGMP is destroyed by the enzyme phosphodiesterase-5, an erection ends. Viagra prevents phosphodiesterase-5 from destroying cGMP, resulting in a prolonged erection.

What Are the Side Effects of Viagra?

Common side effects of Viagra include facial flushing, headaches, stomach pain, nasal congestion, nausea, dizziness, rash, urinary tract infections, diarrhea, and the inability to differentiate between green and blue colors. Serious side effects include low blood pressure, abnormal ejaculation, and prolonged erections lasting more than 4 hours.

Is Viagra Safe to Take?

Viagra is an FDA-approved medication that is considered safe for use with a prescription. Patients should consult with their doctor before taking Viagra, as it may not be safe for certain individuals, such as those with cardiovascular problems, a history of priapism, non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, or taking certain medications like alpha-blockers or anti-hypertensives. Patients with heart disease that require nitroglycerin pills should also avoid taking Viagra.