Every medication we use comes with potential side effects, and it is important to remain aware of them so that we can consult our doctor promptly if any arise.

Today, we will be discussing a medication commonly used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction – Viagra, which is widely prescribed. In this blog, we will explore its possible side effects in detail.

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What is Viagra?

Viagra is the brand name for sildenafil citrate, a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. It works by increasing blood flow to the penis, helping achieve and maintain an erection when sexually stimulated. Viagra belongs to a class of drugs called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors and is usually taken about 30-60 minutes before sexual activity, with effects lasting up to 4 hours.

Dosage & Usage of Viagra

Dosage:

• Available Dosage: It is available in 25mg, 50mg, and 100mg tablets.

• Timing: Take 30-60 minutes before sexual activity

• Maximum frequency: Once per day

• Dose adjustments: Can be increased to 100 mg or reduced to 25 mg, depending on efficacy and tolerability.

Usage:

• Take with or without food (high-fat meals may delay its action).

• Swallow the tablet whole with water.

• Do not crush or chew the tablet.

• Requires sexual stimulation to work effectively.

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9 Most Common Side Effects of Viagra

1. Headache

• A headache is a pain or discomfort in the head or upper neck region. It can range from mild to severe.

• Reason: Viagra causes headaches by dilating blood vessels, which increases blood flow and can lead to pressure changes in the brain. This vasodilation effect often results in mild to moderate headaches in some users.

• How to Avoid: To avoid headaches from Viagra, use the lowest effective dose and stay well-hydrated unless otherwise advised by your doctor.

Dr. Michael Weber, Journal of Clinical Hypertension (2019), states that,

“Headaches are reported in approximately 16% of Viagra users, making it the most common adverse effect.”

2. Flushing (سرخی)

• Flushing is a sudden redness or warmth of the face, neck, or chest due to increased blood flow.

• Reason: Viagra widens blood vessels, leading to increased blood flow near the skin’s surface, causing flushing.

• How to Avoid: Take the lowest effective dose and avoid alcohol or hot environments that worsen flushing.

Dr. B. Kloner, American Journal of Cardiology (2018), mentioned that,

“Facial flushing occurs in about 10% of patients taking sildenafil.”

3. Dyspepsia (بد ہضمی)

• Dyspepsia is indigestion, causing discomfort, bloating, or pain in the upper abdomen after eating or medication use.

• Reason: Viagra relaxes smooth muscles, including the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to acid reflux and indigestion.

• How to Avoid: Take Viagra with food and consider antacids if advised by your doctor.

4. Nasal Congestion (ناک کا بند ہونا)

• Nasal congestion is a stuffy or blocked nose caused by swollen nasal tissues and blood vessels.

• Reason: Viagra dilates blood vessels, including those in the nasal passages, leading to congestion and stuffiness.

• How to Avoid: Use a saline nasal spray or decongestant if approved by your doctor.

5. Dizziness (چکر آنا)

• Dizziness is a feeling of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or faintness that affects your balance.

• Reason: Viagra lowers blood pressure by widening blood vessels, which can make you feel dizzy or faint. It’s significant in patients on nitrates or antihypertensives, increasing the risk of fainting.

• How to Avoid: Stand up slowly and avoid sudden movements after taking Viagra.

FDA Drug Safety Communication (2022), note that,

“Viagra may potentiate hypotensive effects, requiring caution in cardiovascular patients.”

6. Visual Changes (نظر میں تبدیلیاں)

• Visual changes include blurred vision, seeing a blue tint (cyanopsia), or increased sensitivity to light.

• Reason: Viagra affects eye enzymes, leading to temporary changes in colour vision or clarity.

• How to Avoid: Stand up slowly, avoid sudden movements, and drive if vision is affected.

British Journal of Ophthalmology (2017) highlights that,

“Approximately 3% of users experience visual disturbances due to PDE6 inhibition in the retina.”

7. Back Pain and Muscle Pain (کمر درد اور پٹھوں کا درد)

• Back pain and muscle pain mean aching, soreness, or discomfort in your back or body muscles.

• Reason: Viagra relaxes blood vessels, which can change blood flow to muscles and cause aches or stiffness.

• How to Avoid: Stay hydrated, gently stretch, and drink plenty of water; consult your doctor if pain persists.

Dr. K. Patel, Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management (2019), explains that,

“Muscle pain and back pain typically resolve within 48 hours.”

8. Priapism (لمبی دیر تک تناؤ)

• Priapism is a painful erection that lasts more than 4 hours and doesn’t go away.

• Reason: Viagra increases blood flow to the penis, which can sometimes cause a prolonged erection.

• How to Avoid: Use only the prescribed dose and seek medical help immediately if an erection lasts over 4 hours.

The American Urological Association (2020) reports that,

“Though rare (<0.1%), priapism is a urological emergency associated with PDE5 inhibitors.”

9. Hearing Loss (سماعت میں کمی)

• Hearing loss is a sudden or gradual decrease in your ability to hear sounds.

• Reason: Viagra may reduce blood flow to the inner ear, leading to sudden hearing problems or ringing in the ears.

• How to Avoid: Stop taking Viagra and see a doctor immediately if you notice any hearing changes.

Archives of Otolaryngology (2018)  point out that,

“Sudden sensorineural hearing loss linked to sildenafil requires urgent evaluation.”

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Who Should Avoid Taking Viagra?

• Men taking nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin) for chest pain

• Those with severe heart disease or uncontrolled blood pressure

• Individuals with certain eye conditions (e.g, retinitis pigmentosa)

• People with severe liver or kidney impairment

Best Foods That Act Like Natural Viagra

• Watermelon

• Dark Chocolate

• Pomegranate

• Spinach

• Oysters

• Garlic

• Nuts (Walnuts & Almonds)

• Coffee

• Green Tea

Alternative brands

• Sildenafil - by Getz Pharma

• Manforce - by Macter International

• Maxigra - by Martin Dow

• Sildamax - by Agron Pharma

• Sildigra - by RSM Enterprises

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Final Thoughts

Viagra remains an effective treatment for erectile dysfunction, but understanding its side effects is crucial for safe use. Most effects are mild and transient, but serious risks require immediate attention. Always consult your physician to determine suitability based on your health condition.

If you want to learn more about this condition and consult a specialist, you can book an appointment with Pakistan’s best urologists and andrologists by visiting the Apka Muaalij. This platform connects you with an expert Urologist or Andrologist near you for reliable and personalized Sexual health advice and treatment options. For a quick consultation, dial 042 3238 0001 and book your doctor's appointment through Apka Muaalij, the best telehealth platform in Pakistan.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Does Viagra affect fertility?

No, it does not directly impact sperm count or fertility.

Can young men take Viagra?

Only if prescribed, as misuse can cause psychological dependence.

Does Viagra increase sexual desire?

No, it only aids erection after sexual stimulation.

Can I drink alcohol with Viagra?

Not recommended, as it increases side effects and reduces efficacy.

Can lifestyle changes reduce the need for Viagra?

Yes, healthy lifestyle changes can improve erectile function and reduce the need for Viagra.

Are these side effects temporary or permanent?

Most side effects are temporary, but priapism, vision loss, or hearing loss need urgent medical attention to avoid permanent damage.

What should I do if side effects persist or worsen?

If side effects persist or worsen, stop taking Viagra and seek medical help immediately.