Viagra
sildenafil
Viagra is a drug used to treat male erectile dysfunction (impotence),
developed by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer. The generic
name for this compound is sildenafil citrate. The pills are
blue with the words "Pfizer" on one side and "VGR
xx" (with xx being either 25, 50 or 100 as the dose of
that pill in milligrams) on the other.
- Some reports have claimed that Viagra causes enhanced sexual
pleasure for women by increasing blood flow to the sexual
organs.
- Other drugs that operate by the same mechanism include
Cialis and Levitra.
- The "Viagra" name has become so
well known that many fake aphrodisiacs now call themselves "herbal
Viagra" or
are presented as blue tablets imitating the shape and color
of Pfizer's product.
During stimulation, the body releases chemicals causing blood vessels
to open up and supply more blood to the penis. Enzymes break down
these chemicals and allow an erection to go down. Viagra blocks the
action of those enzymes. By blocking the enzyme, blood flow to the
penis increases, resulting in an erection. The drug will not produce
an erection at recommended doses without sexual stimulation.
Side effects:
May include headache, flushing, dyspepsia, prolonged erections, palpitations
and photophobia. Blurring of vision and a curious bluish tinge have
been reported.
Medical advice should be sought before taking Viagra if you:
· are older than 65
· have liver or kidney complications
· are taking protease inhibitors.
Average dosage:
25mg to 100mg taken once per day between 0.5 to 4 hours before sexual
intercourse.
