If a person is suffering from erectile dysfunction and looking to improve this condition, there’s a good chance they have heard about Viagra.
Viagra, also known by its generic name Sildenafil, is the pioneering prescription drug for ED.
But is taking this potent ED medication daily okay? If yes, is it safe to take Viagra daily?
In this blog, we explore this question in detail, cover the side effects of taking Viagra every day, and highlight alternative options worth considering.
The short answer to this question is yes, Viagra or its generic version, Sildenafil, can be taken daily, but whether it needs to or should depends.
The medication works by widening blood vessels and improving blood flow to the penis, thus facilitating an erection. It is worth mentioning that Viagra is not a magic pill. Therefore, sexual stimulation is essential for it to take effect.
Irwin Goldstein, professor at Boston University, Massachusetts, said at an event that he was a firm believer in taking Viagra daily to prevent ED.
Taking Viagra daily can have multiple benefits, mainly for men diagnosed with erectile dysfunction. Here are some key benefits of daily Viagra use.
Viagra can stay in the body for 24 hours or more, but it won't be fully effective.
Therefore, taking Viagra daily can maintain a consistent level of the medication in the body, potentially improving erectile function.
Consistent levels of this medication in the blood may make getting and maintaining erections easier.
Knowing that Viagra is a reliable treatment for ED can boost sexual confidence in men significantly, reducing performance anxiety. This confidence can lead to more enjoyable and spontaneous intimate moments. As a result, a man's self-esteem may dramatically improve, positively affecting various aspects of his everyday life.
The active compound of Viagra, sildenafil citrate, not only treats ED but may also improve cardiovascular health by enhancing blood flow and reducing cardiovascular risks.
For instance, a large study by Stanley E. Althof and colleagues indicated that men taking ED medications, including Sildenafil, have a 25% reduced risk of early deaths due to heart conditions, along with lower incidences of stroke and heart failure. It was also mentioned that men using PDE5 inhibitors (including Viagra) have a 13% chance of experiencing major cardiac events.
Some research studies indicate that daily Viagra can benefit urinary function. A study by researchers at Northwestern University published in 2005 found that Sildenafil effectively treats lower urinary tract symptoms linked with benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate) that often occurs with ED. Men who took a dose of Viagra daily experienced significant improvement in their BPH symptoms.
The US FDA has only approved Viagra doses for as-needed use. The recommended starting dose for most men is 50 mg, with a dosage range of 25 to 100 mg, based on individual needs and the medical provider's recommendations.
The maximum recommended dosing frequency of this ED pill is once a day, which should be taken 30 minutes to an hour before sexual intercourse.
Understanding the Risks: Viagra's Side Effects
While daily use of Viagra can be beneficial under medical guidance, it does come with some potential side effects.
The common side effects of Viagra include headaches, dizziness, nausea, indigestion, nasal congestion, and facial flushing.
The less common side effects of Viagra
In rare cases, Viagra can cause serious side effects in some people, which include:
In the event of any serious side effects while taking Viagra, seek emergency medical help.
People taking Viagra for a long time may wonder if this medicine may eventually let them down, as they may build tolerance to it. The good news is it's very unlikely to develop a tolerance to Viagra over time.
Available Alternatives To Viagra
Viagra was the first medication to manage ED, but now there are several other drugs to use for erectile dysfunction. So, if Viagra doesn't work well, discussing different options with a healthcare provider is essential.
Other drugs include Cialis (tadalafil) and Levitra (vardenafil).
Cialis (Tadalafil)
Similar to Viagra, Cialis is another type of PDE5 inhibitor used to treat ED in men. It is a brand version of Tadalafil. The effects of Cialis last longer than those of Viagra, which is up to 36 hours. Like Viagra, sexual arousal is essential for Cialis to work.
Apart from Cialis, other available brand versions of Tadalafil include Vidalista Professional, Tadalista Super Active, and others.
Levitra (Vardenafil)
Levitra is a prescription ED medication, which is a brand version of Vardenafil. The effects of this ED medication last up to five hours.
Other popular brand versions of vardenafil include Vitara V 60 mg and Vilitra 40 and 20 mg.
Erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence, affects millions of men worldwide. Viagra is one of the multiple available medications that can be effective in treating this condition. It can help men restore their confidence in the bedroom.
While taking Viagra daily is possible, it is advisable always to consult a doctor to understand the best dosage and frequency for specific needs and circumstances.
