Viagra Dosage: Form, Strengths, How to Use, and More

Viagra (sildenafil) is a well-known prescription medication designed to treat erectile dysfunction (ED). As part of the phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitor class, it helps increase blood flow to the penis, facilitating erectile function. Available in both brand-name and generic forms, Viagra has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for adult use.

This medication is typically administered in the following forms:

• Form: Oral tablet
• Strengths:
  • 25 milligrams (mg)
  • 50 mg
  • 100 mg

For comprehensive information regarding Viagra’s dosages and usage, continue reading this detailed article.

Your healthcare provider will prescribe the most suitable Viagra dosage tailored to your specific condition. For in-depth dosage information, refer to the “Viagra: Dosage” section below.

If you're considering Viagra, it's important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine if it's the right medication for you.

Recommended dosages for Viagra are outlined below:

It’s vital to adhere to the dosage your healthcare provider has prescribed, as they will recommend what is most effective for your situation.

Viagra is formulated as a tablet intended for oral ingestion, available in three specific strengths:

• 25 milligrams (mg)
• 50 mg
• 100 mg

The smallest effective dosage is typically prescribed. Viagra is usually taken as needed, approximately one hour prior to sexual activity, but may be taken anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours before sexual intercourse. Remember, the maximum dosage allowed within a 24-hour period is one tablet, regardless of the strength prescribed.

Here is a quick summary of Viagra’s recommended dosages for the treatment of erectile dysfunction:

• Starting Dosage: 25 mg to 50 mg as needed about one hour before sexual activity
• Maintenance Dosage: 50 mg as needed about one hour before sexual activity
• Maximum Dosage: 100 mg as needed about one hour before sexual activity

Note: For all of the dosages listed above, ensure that you do not exceed one dose per day.

Physicians typically prescribe Viagra as a long-term solution. If you and your healthcare provider determine that it is effective and safe for your needs, it may be recommended for long-term management of erectile dysfunction.

Here are several frequently asked questions surrounding Viagra dosing.

No, there are no 150 mg or 200 mg doses of Viagra available. The maximum recommended dosage is 100 mg, to be taken as needed about an hour before sexual activity. Excessive dosing can lead to serious health issues.

Viagra is available only in strengths of 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg. For more details regarding typical dosages, review the “Viagra: Dosage” section above.

For personal dosage inquiries, please consult your healthcare provider.

The standard or average Viagra dosage is typically 50 mg, taken as needed before engaging in sexual activity. However, your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage according to your individual response and needs.

To understand more about common dosages, refer to the previous section on “Viagra: Dosage.”

Viagra is intended for use as needed prior to sexual activity and should not be taken daily. If you require daily treatment, discuss alternatives such as Cialis (tadalafil) with your healthcare provider.

If you have questions regarding appropriate Viagra usage and dosing, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Viagra is not approved for treating high blood pressure. The FDA has not sanctioned it for this use. However, a different medication containing sildenafil, called Revatio, is approved for treating pulmonary hypertension. It is essential to note that Viagra should not be used for this condition.

For more information on Viagra’s approved indications and dosing, please consult your healthcare provider.

Your healthcare provider will assess various factors when prescribing Viagra dosages, including:

• Your age
• The severity of your erectile dysfunction
• Other medications you may be using

Your dosage may vary depending on underlying health conditions.

Viagra is an oral tablet to be taken by mouth.

It is typically taken approximately one hour prior to sexual activity but can be ingested anytime from 30 minutes to 4 hours beforehand. If swallowing pills presents a challenge, consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Accessible Drug Labels and Containers

If you have difficulty reading medication labels, inform your pharmacist. Many pharmacies offer large print or braille labels, as well as scannable codes that convert text to speech. If your current pharmacy does not provide these options, your healthcare provider may recommend one that does.

If opening medication bottles is problematic, ask your pharmacist for alternatives, such as easy-open containers.

Exceeding the recommended Viagra dosage can result in serious side effects. Always adhere to your doctor’s guidelines.

Signs that suggest a Viagra overdose may include:

• Severe low blood pressure
• Flushing
• Intense headache
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea
• Indigestion
• Temporary changes in vision, such as blurred or blue-tinted vision

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you suspect an overdose. Alternatively, you may reach out to the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222. For severe symptoms, call local emergency services or head to the nearest emergency room without delay.

For additional information about Viagra’s dosing, speak with your healthcare provider. Always follow their prescribing instructions, as personal health conditions may require tailored approaches to dosage.

Do not modify your Viagra dosage without consulting your doctor. Furthermore, you may find the following articles useful for further learning:

• Overview of Viagra: For comprehensive details, refer to this article.
• Drug Comparisons: To explore how Viagra contrasts with Cialis, check out this article.
• Information on Side Effects: For insights into potential side effects, view this article.
• Details about Erectile Dysfunction: To learn more about erectile dysfunction, see this article.

Disclaimer: Healthgrades strives to ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date. Nevertheless, this article should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding your medications. These guidelines may change and do not encompass all possible uses, instructions, precautions, or possible adverse effects.