Consisting of the active ingredient sildenafil, Viagra was the first prescription medication used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction in men. Erectile dysfunction was previously thought to be entirely psychological in origin, but the development of Viagra highlighted the vital role played by blood vessels and nerves in facilitating the process of erection.

About Viagra

Erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence, occurs when a chemical known as PDE5 restricts the flow of blood to your penis and thus prevents a satisfactory erection. When you are sexually stimulated, your penile arteries undergo a process of relaxation and enlargement. As the arteries enlarge, your veins that are responsible for carrying blood to and from the penis tend to compress; this helps create an erection. Viagra works by inhibiting the action of PDE5 and thus helps in easing penile blood flow so that you can achieve and retain satisfactory erections. It relaxes the muscles in your penis and lowers your blood pressure. The effects of Viagra are visible in about 30 minutes and these effects may last for up to 4 hours.

Who can buy Viagra?

Viagra is prescription-only pill, so you need to consult your doctor before buying this medication. Viagra cannot be bought or prescribed for women or individuals below the age of 18 years. Viagra is prohibited in people taking nitrate medications prescribed for chest pain, as this medication is likely to lower their blood pressure to unsafe levels. Viagra is generally not prescribed for people over the age of 65 or for those suffering from kidney or liver problems. Your doctor may not prescribe Viagra at all or may prescribe it in substantially lower doses if you are taking alpha blockers for medical conditions such as prostate trouble or high blood pressure.

Is Viagra available online?

Viagra pills can be easily bought from secure online pharmacies or internet clinics. These sites have a panel of consultant physicians who review the details of your medical history and give you a Viagra prescription. It is important that you identify a licensed site that provides authentic prescriptions, brand-name drugs, quick shipping, well-defined privacy policies and informed customer service. Most online pharmacies offer discreet and convenient services for ordering Viagra online.

How should Viagra be taken?

Viagra pills are available in doses of 25mg, 50mg and 100mg. the pill can be taken once every 24 hours. Most men over the age of 50 are prescribed the minimum dose of 25mg. Viagra is best taken on an empty stomach about 30 minutes before you intend to indulge in sexual activity. Avoid heavy or fatty foods such as cheeseburgers or fries as well as alcohol if you plan to take Viagra. This is because fatty foods and alcohol tend to slow down and interfere with the effects of this anti-impotence medication.

You need to discuss your medical history and general health status thoroughly with your doctor in order to avoid the side effects generally associated with Viagra, the most popular impotence treatment drug.