Viagra is a popular treatment for men who have erectile dysfunction (ED) and cannot achieve and maintain an erection for sexual intercourse. This medication is not only safe but very effective, making it the medication of choice for over two decades for men with ED. So how exactly does Viagra work?
To understand how Viagra works, let’s first understand how an erection happens. Similar to the rest of the body, the penis has nerves that can be stimulated. When this happens, the tissues in the penis (called the corpus cavernosa) relax and allow for an increased blood flow into the penis, causing an erection.
When erectile dysfunction happens, the nerves in the penis do not send the signals to the brain to relax the corpus cavernosa. This prevents an increased blood flow into the penis, which makes it difficult to get an erection.
So how does Viagra help? Viagra helps relax the corpus cavernosa when the nerve signals fail to do so. When this happens, the stimulation combined with the relaxed muscles allows for adequate blood flow, leading to an erection.
How Long Do the Effects of Viagra Last?
Viagra begins working about 30 minutes to an hour after taking the oral pill. In some cases, it can take a bit longer for the effects to fully manifest. Once its effects start, they can last for 2 to 3 hours or more.
An important point to note is that Viagra doesn’t simply begin working as soon as it’s taken. Plus, sexual arousal is still necessary for a man to get an erection while using Viagra.
There are certain factors that can affect how long the effects of Viagra last. They include:
- Dosage. Viagra is available in different dosages, and the length of time during which the effects of Viagra will last depends on the milligrams prescribed.
- Age. As we get older, our metabolism slows down. Because of this, Viagra actually tends to last longer for older men than for younger men.
- Overall Health. If you have underlying health conditions such as diabetes or heart problems, Viagra may not be as effective. Viagra’s effects may last longer for some men with kidney conditions that slow down the metabolism.
- Other Medications. Medicines such as certain antibiotics can interact with Viagra and influence its effects on a man’s body.
Men’s Sexual Health Doctor in Phoenix
Before taking Viagra, it’s critical to discuss your medical history and health conditions with a urologist. Viagra can lower blood pressure, so it’s important to tell your doctor about any heart conditions so other options can be considered if necessary. Men who have heart disease, men who take nitrates for angina, and men who have narrowed or blocked arteries in the heart should explain these conditions to their doctor before taking an ED medication.
If you have erectile dysfunction, speak with a urologist about the best treatment options for you. The medical experts at Ironwood Urology treat men with all types of urological issues, such as erectile dysfunction, using effective and safe treatments like Viagra.
To learn more or to schedule a consultation, call us at (480) 961-2323 or request an appointment online now. We look forward to seeing you here.
