Viagra® and the treatment of erectile dysfunction: use, effectiveness and side effects

Viagra® and the treatment of erectile dysfunction use effectiveness and

Authorized in March 1998, Viagra®, initially developed to treat angina pectoris and hypertension, quickly became a real revolution for men experiencing erectile dysfunction. The immediate success of this blue diamond-shaped tablet comes down to the fact that it offers safe and effective oral pharmacotherapy in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

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Used in disorders of theerectionViagra®, or Sildenafil (the active substance), is often associated with small age-related weaknesses. But it also benefits men in situations of stressor chronic diseases (obesity, depression, diabetes, Cancer). Generally prescribed on a temporary basis, it does not trigger an erection on its own and only works in a situation of desire. Its effect is manifested one hour after taking and lasts an average of 4 to 5 hours.

How does Viagra® work?

vasodilator, it acts specifically on the penis. The erection is dependent on the autonomic nervous system. It is due to the relaxation of smooth muscle surrounding the blood vessels. In a situation of desire, a neuromediator NO is produced in situit increases the concentration of a molecule the cGMP that causes this relaxation. A rush of blood ensues in the arteries cavernous. At the same time, the compression of veins will oppose the outflow of blood and allow obtaining the rigidity from penis (veno-occlusive mechanism). Viagra® inhibits the action of a enzyme phosphodiesterase E5 (PDE5) which degrades cGMP. It thus facilitates erection.

What are the interactions and side effects of Viagra®?

Sold only on medical prescription (online sales without a prescription are prohibited in France), there may be undesirable effects such as headaches, facial flushing, digestive disorders but its action on the cardiovascular system remains minimal. It should not be taken in combination with other nitrated vasodilators (pathologies cardiovascular) nor with certain orgasm-enhancing products sold in sex shops (poppers) due to the risk of a sudden drop in the blood pressure.

With an improved erection in 75% of users, all causes of impotence combined, and several million prescriptions issued worldwide in 20 years, sildenafil has helped improve men’s sexual health. Without dependency physicalit can nevertheless contribute to the fear of an incomplete erection “without viagra” and maintain a psychological dependence.

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