Common questions about sildenafil

If you find that 100mg of Viagra (sildenafil) does not work for you, there could be several reasons behind this. It is important to understand that not every individual responds to medication in the same way. Factors such as physiological changes, health status, and dosage can influence the effectiveness of the medication.

Here are several possible reasons why Sildenafil may not be effective:

• You may not have waited long enough after taking it before trying to have sex. Sildenafil usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour to start working, so patience is key.
• Alternatively, you may have waited too long after taking it. The effects of sildenafil can last for about 4 to 6 hours, but optimizing the timing of your dose is crucial to enhance its effectiveness.
• The dose may not be appropriate for your particular situation. While 100mg is the maximum recommended dose, some individuals may require a lower dose due to side effects or individual sensitivity.
• Lack of sexual arousal can also hinder the effectiveness of sildenafil. It's important to remember that the medication does not directly induce an erection; it requires sexual stimulation to be effective.

If you have tried Viagra and it hasn't worked, it's important to consult your healthcare provider. They may suggest alternative treatments or medications that could be more effective for you.

If sildenafil is proving ineffective, there are several avenues you can explore to address erectile dysfunction:

• Consult with your healthcare provider. They may suggest adjusting the dosage or trying a different medication that may suit you better.
• Consider other PDE5 inhibitors, such as tadalafil (Cialis), avanafil (Spedra), or vardenafil (Levitra), as these alternatives may work more effectively for your specific condition.
• Explore non-pharmacological options, such as therapy or counseling, particularly if psychological factors are contributing to your erection issues.
• Discuss potential underlying health issues with your doctor, such as cardiovascular conditions or diabetes, as these could be impacting your erectile function.

Yes, there are several alternatives to Viagra that you can consider with your doctor to manage erectile dysfunction:

• Tadalafil (Cialis) – offers a longer duration of action and can be taken up to 36 hours before sexual activity.
• Vardenafil (Levitra) – typically taken around 1 hour before engaging in sexual activity.
• Avanafil (Spedra) – noted for its rapid onset, can be taken about 15–30 minutes prior to sexual intercourse.
• Alprostadil – available as an injection or a urethral suppository, may be effective for certain individuals who do not respond to oral medications.

Yes, implementing certain lifestyle changes can significantly improve erectile function and overall sexual health:

• Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet can help reduce the risk factors associated with erectile dysfunction.
• Quitting smoking has immediate and long-term benefits for blood circulation and overall health.
• Limiting alcohol intake can enhance erectile function and lower the risk of developing ED.
• Regular exercise not only boosts physical health but also improves sexual performance and stamina.
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques, counseling, or lifestyle modifications can alleviate some of the psychological causes of erectile dysfunction.

Common side effects of Viagra include:

• Headache
• Facial flushing
• Indigestion
• Nasal congestion
• Dizziness

Serious side effects such as sudden vision loss or an erection lasting more than 4 hours (priapism) require immediate medical attention. Always discuss potential risks with your doctor before starting treatment.

While Viagra is safe for many men, it is not suitable for everyone. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider if you:

• Have a personal or family history of heart disease or stroke.
• Are currently taking medications that contain nitrates, as this combination can result in dangerously low blood pressure.
• Have severe liver or kidney problems, which may affect how the medication works.
• Are allergic to sildenafil or any of its other ingredients.

Some medications may interact with sildenafil, including:

• Nitrates used for chest pain.
• Certain antihypertensive medications.
• Antifungal medications, such as ketoconazole, that may alter sildenafil's effects.
• Antiviral medications, including ritonavir, which can interfere with the metabolism of sildenafil.

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are currently taking to prevent any potentially harmful interactions.

Viagra is typically taken as needed, about 30 minutes to an hour before sexual activity. It is important to note that it should not be taken more than once a day to minimize the risk of side effects and maximize effectiveness.

For optimal results, avoid consuming heavy meals or excessive alcohol before taking Viagra, as these can adversely affect its absorption and efficacy in the body.

Sildenafil is typically used on an as-needed basis rather than following a fixed dosing schedule. Therefore, if you miss a dose, simply take it when required, but do not double dose to compensate for missed doses.