How to use Viagra or sildenafil effectively

Popping Viagra-like drugs without doctor’s consultation can have side-effects. Here’s what you should know.

Several men pop Viagra to beat erectile dysfunction or to last longer in bed. They do not realise that it could have side-effects if you do not take the right dosage.

What is Viagra?

Sildenafil is the name of a drug that is used for treating erectile dysfunction and is sold in different brand names in India. Readers should understand that Viagra is one such brand that was orignally manufactured by a pharma company (Pfizer) in late 1990s supported with plenty of research. Colloquically and popularly, all brands of sildenafil are called Viagra. It is similar to using Xerox (a brand name) to mean photocopying. 

Why drugs for erectile dysfunction need to be used carefully

‘Optimal usage of a drug’ means prescribing an approapriate dosage of a drug for the right patient and giving adequate information on how to use that drug. It is also important to let the patients know about the possible side-effects and what to do if in case of side/adverse effect.

Many men who use sildenafil without consulting a doctor and buy it through websites which could be potentially fatal due to counterfeit products.

On the other hand, many men are sub-optimally/unwantedly treated by doctors who are not qualified/experienced in sexual medicine. The role and importance of using sildenafil is important but it should be prescribed to the right patient after taking a good amount of history about his sexual functioning, relationship details, psychological history, general health and other drugs taken.

Sildenafil is seen as a quick-fix and given as a placebo to treat erectile dysfunction in men with psychological issues and the good news is it can help. But, such patients may start to believe that they can perform ONLY with medications and continue to do so without consulting a doctor. Good sexual history, education and counselling is all what is needed for men with psychological issues. Medications can be used for a short period to boost confidence but patients should be well-informed that they are not going to be on it for a long time and that changing the way they think and do is very essential.

How to use sildenafil (aka Viagra) effectively

A set of instructions should be given to patients on sildenafil:

1. A minimum wait of 45 minutes to 1 hour is required between taking the tablet and having sex or masturbating.
2. In the time interval between tablet and sex, it is important to be in sexual mood and have erotic thoughts rather than anxiously looking at the clock. Remember, sildenafil will only help with erection when there is adequate sexual stimulation.
3. Fatty meal should be avoided on the day of taking the tablet.
4. A minimum of 2 hours is required between last food and pill. For example, 6 pm have food and 8 pm take the tablet and attempt sex at about 9 pm.
5. Do not expect wonders to happen at the very first attempt of using the tablet. Allow at least 6-7 attempts so that the body gets used to the tablet. If you fear failure in front of partner, try using the tablet and masturbating first. Direct stimulation of penis after taking the tablet can be of great help.
6. If possible, discuss about the use of sildenafil with your partner who can help you get an erection.
7. If you are taking any medications for any health problems, please be cautious and consult your doctor/specialists in sexual medicine.
8. Read the insert that comes along with the tablet or talk to your doctor/pharmacist and clarify your doubts rather than feeling ashamed and risking your health and money.
9. Do not buy tablets from the internet. It may look like the original drug and cheaper but can be fatal.
10. Do not increase the dosage without consulting the doctor and follow-up with him as and when required.