VIAGRA is a pill used by men to treat erectile dysfunction, or ED. It can help many men who have erectile dysfunction get and keep an erection when they become sexually excited. VIAGRA is also known by its scientific name, sildenafil citrate.

VIAGRA is a prescription drug that works by increasing blood flow to the penis. VIAGRA enables many men with erectile dysfunction to respond to sexual stimulation. When a man is sexually excited, VIAGRA helps the penis fill with enough blood to cause an erection. After sex is over, the erection goes away.

VIAGRA begins working in about 30 minutes and it can last for up to 4 hours. In one study, it was proven to work in as little as 14 minutes.

For most patients, VIAGRA can be taken once a day as needed. In patients taking certain protease inhibitors (such as for the treatment of HIV), it is recommended not to exceed a maximum single dose of 25 mg of VIAGRA in a 48-hour period. As always, please consult with your doctor if you have any questions about taking VIAGRA.

Yes. VIAGRA can be taken with or without food. When taking VIAGRA, a fatty meal can slow your body’s ability to absorb the drug. It may not work as quickly. So eat something with less fat if you can, or give yourself more time.

Tell your doctor about any medicines you are taking. Do not take VIAGRA if you take nitrates, often prescribed for chest pain, as this may cause a sudden, unsafe drop in blood pressure. If you have prostate problems or high blood pressure for which you take medicines called alpha blockers, your doctor may start you on a lower dose of VIAGRA. If you are taking protease inhibitors, such as for the treatment of HIV, your doctor may recommend a 25-mg dose and may limit you to a maximum single dose of 25 mg of VIAGRA in a 48-hour period. Do not start or stop taking any medicines before checking with your doctor or pharmacist.

The most common side effects of VIAGRA are headache, flushing, upset stomach, and abnormal vision, but there are others. Do not take VIAGRA if you take nitrates, as it may cause an unsafe drop in blood pressure. Seek immediate medical help for an erection lasting more than 4 hours. And if you experience a sudden decrease in vision or hearing, stop taking VIAGRA and call your doctor right away.

It’s possible that you may need to take VIAGRA 3 or 4 times before it works for you. Or you may need to try a different dose. VIAGRA may not be right for every man, but in studies it has proven to be effective in up to 4 out of 5 men with ED taking the 100-mg dose (compared to 1 out of 4 men taking a sugar pill). If VIAGRA isn’t working for you, your best bet may be to speak to your doctor. Remember: always follow your doctor’s instructions closely to get the best results when taking VIAGRA.